 He witnesses the economic chaos from hyperinflation, the country's debates regarding war reparations and the treaties of Versailles and Rapallo, and the street battles between Communists and Nationalists.Ellis helps kidnap Keith's brother Kaspar to prevent him from helping other members of Marinebrigade Ehrhardt assassinate Rathenau, and many around Ellis believe that he is an American secret agent.He becomes wealthy from currency trading through Waldstein & Co. while the country suffers from the occupation of the Ruhr.