The Wings of the Dove is a novel by
Henry James, American novelist, short story writer and playwright. It was
published in 1902.
The daughter of a discredited social adventurer, Kate Croy is secretly engaged to Merton Densher, a journalist who travels a lot as a part of his job.
While Merton is away, Kate becomes acquainted and becomes a friend of the rich Milly Theale, who confides to her that she is suffering from a mysterious illness. Apparently, Milly's doctor has told her that only happiness can extend her life.
When Merton returns, Kate encourages him to take an interest in Milly, hoping that he and Milly will marry, eventually making him a rich widower, and then they can marry.
The plot appears to be working until Lord Mark, a fortune-seeker, rejected by Milly, takes his vindictiveness and rejection by revealing to Milly the true
relationship between Kate and Merton. Milly's health deteriorates. She goes to Venice hoping her health might improve. Sadly, it didn't happen, and she dies.
After her death Merton receives a letter from Milly: she has made him wealthy enough to marry Kate. Merton feels embarrassed and in remorse out of shame, confronts Kate Croy. He offers to marry her only if she agrees not to accept the money bestowed on him by Milly. Kate declines.
Henry James's novel ends with Kate and Merton parting ways.