To the editors:

I am writing to applaud Noah Oppenheim's sense of social justice and his measured, logical and crystal-clear defense of final clubs, the paragons of noble and reputable institutions.

Oppenheim laments the plight of rich white good-looking athletes, who so often need an oasis of stability in their sea of privilege. Having rigorously defended entrenched social privilege, he then lays out a fine analysis of exactly why females actually benefit from the clubs.

Since I am not such a fine writer as Mr. Oppenheim, let me quote from the author himself: "Some women enjoy being confined, pumped full of alcohol and preyed upon. They feel desired, not demeaned."

I cannot help but recall the aching voice of most of my female friends, who often complain to me, "You know, I just got back from Lamont only to find that no one would confine me, pump me full of alcohol and prey upon me." Thank you, Mr. Oppenheim, for finally giving a voice to the silent female minority who enjoy sexual abuse and harassment. MATTHEW N. STOLLER '00   Oct. 11, 1998