Originally Posted by Turnbull
According to Bonanno, in his autobiography, "A Man of Honor," Moretti was Costello's "strength"--his protector. It seems odd that a Mafia Don would need a protector, but given the violence and treachery that surrounds Mob life, having someone as feared as Morettti at his side would help deter rivals--like Genovese. After Moretti was whacked (because his tertiary syphilis weakened his mind and loosened his lips), Costello took on Albert Anastasia as his partner and protector. That worked until May 1957, when Genovese ordered The Chin to kill Costello. The attempt failed, but Costello got the message and stepped down. Back in power, Genovese then quickly conspired with Gambino to have The Mad Hatter whacked.


Vito Genovese was a Neapolitan through and through, the Calabrese were in a tough spot.


"The king is dead, long live the king!"