It shows the whole concept of the fist hidden by a velvet glove. When Woltz insults Tom at the studio, Tom simply says he admires his films. When Woltz shows Tom the horse (and the key to the success of Tom's mission) Tom simply admires the horse and drops the subject. After Woltz' dinner rant, Tom simply thanks him and asks for a ride to the airport. This is all vintage Vito, as is the "head in the bed" scene. This is in stark contrast to Santino's leadership style, and this scene sets this difference up.