Richard Smith, owner of Hubcap Tom’s (“We Shall Not Be Moved,” “Don’t Tread on Me,” 4/4), is indeed

a character, but he also has a heart

of gold.

I met Smith several years ago when the Probate Division of Superior Court appointed me to represent a former employee of his lot. The man was gravely injured in an automobile accident, and Smith had petitioned the court to be his guardian and conservator in order to handle his affairs.

I found that Smith had done all

he could to salvage as much of my client’s quality of life as was possible and had a sincere concern about

supporting him emotionally as well

as materially.

Smith brings much more than used car parts to the city.

Brightwood