Suspicion Derided

The outrageous questioning of Alberto Vilar’s motives for his wonderful, generous gifts to opera comes under the category of stupidity and my disgust (“Opera Millions Earn Gratitude With a Dash of Suspicion,” by Diane Haithman, March 21). When large sums of money are given to research institutes, hospitals, universities or any other similar organization, there is never a question of suspicion or questioning of motive.

The first question was not to compliment Mr. Vilar but [was], “How did pop star Ricky Martin end up as the ‘surprise guest’ at tonight’s gala?” And as far as I am concerned, she challenged him in every question from there on.

Obviously, Haithman has no idea of how few Mr. Vilars there are in the world of opera. Instead of complimenting him and presenting him in a positive way to us opera lovers, she presented this snide and insulting Q&A; piece.

Frankly, both Haithman and The Times owe him an apology for this rude interview. He was certainly most gracious under this ludicrous line of questioning.

BEVERLY BENGELSDORF

Oceanside