Originally posted by Researcher:
What would be the use of denying them to start their own family? They were the Don's friends for years, it would simply be impolite to not let them form their families! That could also lead to them setting Mike up for assassination...
In that scene, Mike does say that he doesn't want to give Barzini an 'excuse to start fighting'. Allowing Tessio & Clemenza to break off and recruit men before the move to Nevada might do just that.
Mike also says that "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..."
In my opinion, both Michael and Vito KNEW that one of these men would eventually end up turning on the Corleones. They had to drop the bait, then wait to see who would take it.
Apple
