Originally Posted By: Lilo
Originally Posted By: dontomasso
So what does Tessio mean when he says "tell Mikey it was only business. I always liked him?"


Tessio made a mistake in judgement. He had no personal animus towards Michael.
From Tessio's (limited) POV it appeared that Michael was requiring Tessio to take a dangerously weak position towards Barzini's incursions-a position that could only end with Tessio eliminated by Barzini, Tessio forced to accomodate and submit to Barzini or Tessio hounded out of the business completely by Barzini. Tessio made a business decision that now was the right time to jump ship to a "winning team" but it wasn't because he was jealous of Michael or disliked Michael... although he would have overseen his murder... whistle


Great point. Didn't Michael continue to employ this type of manipulation throughout the trilogy? Have subordinates put their head in the Lion's mouth in exchange for having them appear loyal? I like how Michael

"Now, that plane goes to Miami."
"That's right. That's where I want it met."