I can see letting the auction continue. Isn't it the case that just because the sale happens doesn't mean that Leland's claim on the proceeds disappears, it just becomes a defined monetary claim based on the sale price rather than an undefined claim based on potential commission? It might actually make things easier, and the price might be higher both bc HA made the sale and because there is the extra press bringing eyes to the sale.
Assuming no knowledge of what transpired with Leland's, one can say that Heritage was not wrong to accept the cards when the consigner signed a contract with them. However, just because a second contract was signed does not invalidate the first, so they might lose this one. Not exactly the same, but remember that the buyer of stolen goods is often the one who loses out.
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