From JGeoff\'s transcript of GF-I on his web site www.thegodfathertrilogy.com


MICHAEL (seated on a chair)
After we make the move to Nevada -- you can break off from the Corleone Family and go on your own. After we make the move to Nevada.

CLEMENZA
How long with that be?

MICHAEL
Six months.

...(then later in the same conversation...)

MICHAEL (who is now seated behind the desk)
There are things being negotiated now that are gonna solve all your problems and answer all your questions. That's all I can tell you now.


Michael was addressing both Clemenza and Tessio during this conversation. However, NEITHER Tessio nor Clemenza knew that Michael planned to kill the rival Dons. Tessio may have simply interpreted Michael's vague reply as a genuine sign of weakness, a failure to have a real concrete plan, and part of an ongoing "snow job" to buy himself six more months. Tessio felt he couldn't wait another six more months in the absence of a real plan. He's already been operating at a disadvantage under "the peace" and perhaps felt Michael was hedging on Don Vito's committment to allow Tessio and Clemenza to form their own families.

tony b.