Chapter 17 begins with Vice-Bundesfuehrer August Krapptauer, whose unexpected burst of youthful energy surprises everyone around him. He descends the stairs to retrieve Helga’s luggage from Jones’ limousine, an action that causes immediate concern for both Jones and Keeley due to Krapptauer’s frail health and a heart condition. Despite their protests and clear apprehension about his physical limitations, Krapptauer insists that risking his life for Howard Campbell’s wife—who is linked to Adolf Hitler—is a matter of deep honor. However, his determination tragically proves to be too much for his weakened body as he collapses and dies right in front of them.

The futile attempts to revive Krapptauer result in Dr. Abraham Epstein being called to confirm his death. The confirmation is delivered in a harsh and somewhat insensitive manner, which is typical of Epstein’s no-nonsense approach to situations. Despite the tension between Jones, Keeley, and the doctor, a mutual respect exists, perhaps due to their shared history and similar ideologies. Jones, while expressing sadness at Krapptauer’s death, covers his body with a blanket and reflects on how Krapptauer had recently begun to find new purpose in his life. He had started organizing a group called the Iron Guard of the White Sons of the American Constitution, which aimed to unite young people in a disciplined manner, and was beginning to find meaning in this new venture. The nostalgia surrounding Krapptauer paints him as a committed and inspirational figure, one who hoped to instill values of order and unity in the younger generation, and this loss resonates deeply with those who knew him.

Jones goes on to reminisce about how Krapptauer had admired Campbell during his radio broadcasts, a dedication that persisted even during Krapptauer’s imprisonment. He recalls how Krapptauer listened with great attention, almost religiously, despite the hardships he faced. There’s a clear sense of respect in Jones’ voice as he talks about how he hoped Campbell would one day become the Idealism Officer of the Iron Guard, someone who could elevate the movement’s cause to new heights. This hope reflects the high regard in which Jones holds Campbell, believing him to be a figure capable of inspiring young people to rise above the chaos that surrounds them. The conversation becomes tinged with sadness, as they both acknowledge that Krapptauer had so much more to offer, particularly with his vision for bringing together the youth of the nation under the banner of the Iron Guard. The weight of missed opportunities feels especially heavy in light of his sudden death, leaving both men to reflect on what might have been.

The tension in the air thickens as Jones’ chauffeur, Robert, enters the scene. Robert is no ordinary man; he is an elderly figure with a complicated history as a former Japanese ally and someone who dubs himself the “Black Fuehrer of Harlem.” His presence immediately disrupts the somber atmosphere, as Robert makes no effort to greet Campbell and instead expresses a deep disdain for him. His remarks introduce a completely different ideological perspective, one rooted in his belief that the racial power dynamics of the future will shift dramatically. Robert predicts that the black population will rise up and eventually dominate, displacing the white populace, and this declaration sets the stage for a charged dialogue about race and identity. The tension between Campbell and Robert builds quickly as their differing views come into sharp conflict, especially as Campbell questions Robert’s assumptions about race, identity, and the future.

The conversation turns increasingly uncomfortable as Robert’s radical ideas challenge Campbell’s own perspectives, forcing him to grapple with difficult questions about race, power, and societal structure. Robert’s words suggest a world that will be dramatically different from the one Campbell knows, one where the old power structures will no longer hold. This dialogue, laced with historical references and tensions, prompts Campbell to examine his own beliefs and assumptions about race and social order. The conversation is not just ideological but deeply personal, as both men confront uncomfortable truths about their society and their roles within it. The conversation’s intensity reflects the larger theme of racial discord and tension that runs throughout the chapter, touching on issues that are not just theoretical but deeply tied to the characters’ lives and futures.

The chapter culminates in a tense standoff between the two men, with ideological differences making clear the emotional and intellectual chasm that exists between them. Robert’s vision of a future dominated by colored people directly contradicts Campbell’s more traditional outlook on race, forcing the protagonist to reflect on the complexities of racial identity in a world that is shifting rapidly. This ideological clash speaks to the broader issues that Campbell and those around him are struggling with, highlighting the difficulties of reconciling past beliefs with the changing realities of their environment. The discussion leaves the reader questioning the assumptions each character holds and wondering how these differing worldviews will shape the events to come.