University Provost Harvey V. Fineberg '67 is doing well and recovering at home following surgery late last week, Harvard spokesperson Joe Wrinn said last night.

Fineberg had surgery for what appeared to be an early stage of prostate cancer.

Associate Provost Dennis F. Thompson will coordinate the provost's office during what Fineberg expects to be about a month-long absence from his post.

According to a statement released by the Harvard News Office, Fineberg expects to resume his tasks gradually over the next few months.

Fineberg notified his staff of the situation a week ago and told deans and other University officials last Wednesday.

In a letter to his associates, Fineberg said, "I will miss joining many of you in the holiday festivities that mark this time of year. My thoughts and best wishes are with you now, and I look forward to being back with you in the New Year."

"He and his doctors are optimistic," Thompson said last week. "Harvey was able to get most of the critical business under control before he left this afternoon.... So far everybody seems to think business is in order and we'll be able to manage for a while."

"We are of course very concerned," Assistant Provost Sarah Wald said in an interview last Wednesday. "We are wishing Harvey a speedy recovery and our thoughts are with him."