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The Wings of the Dove, novel by Henry James, published in 1902. It explores one of James’s favourite themes: the cultural clash between naive Americans and sophisticated, often decadent Europeans. The story is set in London and Venice. Kate Croy is a Londoner who encourages her secret fiancĂ©, Merton Densher, to woo and marry Milly Theale, a wealthy young American who is dying of a mysterious malady. Thus, Kate reasons, although Milly will die soon,...