Merton had already become suspicious, and he tells her that he will only go along with the plan if she agrees to sleep with him first.

She thinks that Merton and Milly should marry, so that when Milly dies, he will inherit her considerable wealth. She throws a party, and it is during the party that Kate reveals to Merton that she has a plan that will cure their money woes and enable them to get married. Milly has a palazzo in Venice, and it is a place where she has been extraordinarily happy. Stringham, and shortly after she departs, Aunt Maud, Kate, and Merton follow them. Kate decides that Marton should pay Milly a lot of attention which confuses him, but he is relieved that Milly has not disclosed their closeness. Merton returns to London from his trip to America, astonished to find the heiress with whom he had enjoyed a romantic dalliance now residing in the house with his betrothed. Milly and Kate become convinced that Milly is terminally ill. Milly's constant worry is that she has an incurable disease, and although Sir Luke does not confirm her fears, he does not deny them either. She takes Kate with her when she visits Sir Luke Strett, one of London's finest physicians. Milly finds Kate to be a far more enjoyable companion than Mrs. Stringham, is companion to an American heiress, Milly Theale, who has arrived in London filled with enthusiasm for social life. She lives with her aunt who is somewhat of a bully. They would love to wed quickly but they are always encumbered by financial woes, and Kate is also knee-deep in problems within her family. Kate Croy and Merton Densher are secretly engaged to be married. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community.

The Wings of the Dove by Henry James