# XIX explained — The Stainless Steel Rat

> Chapter companion for The Stainless Steel Rat by Harry Harrison.

## What happens

Inskipp reveals that Jim's entire mission was a 'graduating exercise' for the Special Corps, and that he has been tracked and monitored throughout. Jim confronts Inskipp about Angelina's capture and learns she may be rehabilitated rather than executed. The chapter ends with Jim toasting to crime with Inskipp.

## Themes in this chapter

### Morality and Amorality

Jim and Inskipp debate the ethics of the Corps' methods, the thin line between right and wrong, and the fate of Angelina.

### Transformation and Reinvention

Jim's transition from probationary agent to full agent is formalized, and Angelina's potential rehabilitation is discussed.

### Crime and Identity

Jim's identity as a former criminal turned Corps agent is tested, and Angelina's identity as a murderer is questioned in light of possible treatment.

## Character check-ins

### Slippery Jim diGriz

Jim is confronted by Inskipp, learns the truth about his 'graduating exercise,' and struggles with his feelings for Angelina.

### Harold Peters Inskipp

Inskipp reveals the Corps' manipulation of Jim's mission, explains the tracking devices, and offers hope for Angelina's rehabilitation.

### Angelina

Angelina has been captured and taken offplanet; Jim is told she may be treated by psych boys rather than executed.

## Key lines

> I hereby appoint you a Full Agent of the Special Corps, by authority of the power vested in me.

Inskipp formally promotes Jim to full agent by sticking a paper star on his shirt.

_Inskipp's informal ceremony marks Jim's official acceptance into the Corps._

> Would you turn her loose again—the way she is?

Inskipp challenges Jim to consider whether he would free Angelina knowing her violent nature.

_Inskipp forces Jim to confront the moral dilemma of Angelina's condition._

> Here's to crime.

Jim and Inskipp toast with brandy, acknowledging their shared criminal past and future.

_The toast symbolizes their bond and the ambiguous morality of the Corps._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_stainless_steel_rat_se/chapters/xix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_stainless_steel_rat_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_stainless_steel_rat_se/chapters