The Wings of the Dove is a novel by Henry James, first published in 1902. It tells the story of Milly Theale, an American heiress who is dying of an unnamed terminal illness. She travels to England in search of a cure, and meets Kate Croy and Merton Densher, two young people who are in love but unable to marry due to their financial circumstances. Milly falls in love with Merton, and Kate, seeing an opportunity to improve her own financial situation, encourages the relationship.
Milly and Merton become engaged, and Milly decides to leave her fortune to Merton after her death. She also makes a secret agreement with Kate, in which she will give Kate a large sum of money if Merton and Kate marry after Milly's death. Milly's health deteriorates, and she dies soon after.
Merton and Kate struggle with their conscience over the agreement they made with Milly, and Merton eventually decides to break off the engagement. He and Kate part ways, and Merton goes to America to try to forget his feelings for Kate.
Meanwhile, Kate is left alone and destitute. She is eventually taken in by her aunt, who helps her to find a job. She eventually meets a wealthy man, Sir Luke Strett, and they become engaged. However, Kate is still in love with Merton, and she eventually decides to break off the engagement.
Merton returns to England and reunites with Kate. They confess their love for each other and decide to marry, despite their financial circumstances. They are able to do so thanks to a generous gift from Milly's estate.
The Wings of the Dove is a story of love, loss, and redemption. It is a classic novel that has been praised for its psychological insight and its exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. It is a timeless story of love and sacrifice, and a reminder of the power of true love.