The story "Federigo's Falcon" tells of a talented young man who falls into poverty while trying to woo the woman he loves. Even in poverty, he continues to give his all to her, and after many trials, the two are married.
The story starts by listing the virtues of a young man, Federigo, renowned both for his prowess with weapons and his courtliness. Federigo falls in love with Monna Giovanna, one of the most beautiful and charming women in Florence and spends his money exorbitantly to court her. She, however, doesn't take any notice, and Federigo is forced into poverty in the country with only his prized falcon for company.
Monna Giovanna's husband dies, and she moves to the country with her son for her mourning period. The two live near Federigo, and the son often spends time with the man. Unfortunately, the boy falls ill and asks for Federigo's falcon to cure him. The mother is troubled at the thought of taking Federigo's only source of income, but she decides to try for the sake of her son.
Federigo welcomes Monna Giovanna into his house, but soon he becomes anxious when he realizes that he has nothing to feed her for dinner. To make a good impression, he orders the falcon killed and roasted for dinner. After dinner, Monna Giovanna begs Federigo to give her the falcon, whereupon he becomes inconsolable and bursts into tears because he cannot comply with her request.
Sadly, the son passes away, and Monna Giovanna is required to remarry. She declares that she will have no one but Federigo, and together with her riches and Federigo's newfound sense, they live happily for the rest of their days.