Tinged with philosophy

I am compelled to respond to the opinion-page column "The 'Illiberal' Yeltsin," Sept. 4. The sub-headline reads "Russian leader's patriotism is tinged with chauvinism." This understatement deserves notice.Boris Yeltsin's patriotism is no more "tinged" with chauvinism than George Wallace's philosophy is "tinged" with racism or Benjamin Hooks's "advancement for colored people" is "tinged" with liberalism. It is the linchpin of his philosophy, and ought to be recognized as such. C. Garton-Zavesky, Fayetteville, N.C. Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.