Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
So where's your point in relation to Fredo's betrayal?
Initially you claimed that Tessio was the only other one who openly protested; now when that's proven incorrect, you point out that only Tessio did not answer, "Yes, always Godfather...", in unison with Clemenza after both pleading to Vito to let the handcuffs off.
Look, we agree that both Fredo and Tessio turned traitor to the Family. I see no comparison beyond that because Tessio's betrayal was business. Fredo's was due to stupidity and jealousy.
Apple
The point is that Clemenza protested but quickly backpedaled to Vito when the question of loyalty was raised. In my view, Clemenza's comments were critical because they showed that his loyalty was to Vito - unconditionally. And since Vito asked Clemenza to "be a friend to Michael," then Clemenza would follow the request. In contrast, by remaining silent, Tessio was showing that he didn't believe in Michael or Vito's judgment. Tessio didn't have faith in Michael's abilities. Tessio also believed that, under Michael's leadership, Tessio would be on a sinking ship by remaining with the Corleone Family.
