When she had her day in court, Ms. Harding admitted that she failed to report the piedfort to the authorities. She failed to relinquish it to the coroner, even after she knew she was required to do so.
But all she could think of was how precious the childhood trinket had been to her and how much it had become a memento of gardening with her late mum.
There Was No Precedent for This Type of Case
Reedy, attorney for the case, argued that Ms. Harding did not report the finding because of its sentimental value, but also because she was disorganized.
He also argued the point that since she was a minor when she found it, and there was no law in effect, it was impossible for her to follow a law. How could she follow a law that did not exist?
Would Her Defense Do Well in Court?
Only time would tell. Ms. Harding and her lawyer hoped the case could be resolved.
They hoped the whole mess would just go away after the courts heard her story. But going up against the courts was no easy task.
A Priceless Token
Despite all that had happened, or maybe because of it, Kate was more determined than ever to hold onto that special relic. It dated back to 14th century France, but she did not care at this point.
The coin was invaluable to her! It was a priceless memento and she was not going to relinquish it.
It Was All She Had Left of Her Mom
She was set on keeping it, but she feared the Crown would continue its quest to obtain it. She was briefed by her lawyer that the state had a right to go after it even if she was cleared of charges.
She did not know what she was going to do.