Book 5, Canto 2 Summary

Artegall and Talus meet Florimell's dwarf. He tells Talus that in order to get to the wedding of Florimell and Marinell, they must cross a bridge guarded by a Saracen who demands heavy tribute from all who cross. Artegall challenges the man, Pollente, and is treacherously dropped through a trap door in the bridge. The fight continues in the river, and Artegall beheads Pollente. He and Talus approach the castle, where Pollente's daughter Munera (who has grown quite rich from her father's extortion) tries to distract him by throwing gold over the walls. Artegall ignores this, then Talus breaks down the door. They find Munera within, huddling beneath a pile of gold. Artegall feels some pity for her, but watches as Talus cuts off her gold hands and silver feet and tosses her into the river. Then, Talus melts her gold...