Book 3, Canto 10 Summary

The knights leave in morning, but not before Paridell manages to make love to Hellenore and steal away with her. Since she knows her husband so well, Hellenore sets fire to his beloved treasure just before they leave, knowing that Malbecco will not leave his things in danger to reclaim his wife. She is correct, and the lovers escape. Malbecco puts out the fire and vows revenge. He meets Braggadochio and Trompart, and offers them a lot of money to kill Paridell. Braggadochio initially scoffs at the money, but eventually accepts, and they set off after the lovers. Soon, the come across Paridell alone. When asked about Hellenore, he tells them she is in the woods somewhere. He has abandoned her the same way he has abandoned many others before her. Hellenore, wandering alone in the woods, is taken in by...