A Foregone Conclusion

"A Foregone Conclusion" by William Dean Howells is a story set in the 1800s, where an inventor and priest named Don Ippolito dreams of finding success in Venice, but faces a world of challenges. When Don Ippolito turns to an American consul for help, seeking a passport and belief in his inventions, he is met with doubt. He hopes his special weapon will impress, but instead faces skepticism and rejection. The story highlights the clash between high hopes and the hard reality of cultural differences. The novel shows how personal dreams can run up against the misunderstandings of the world.