I read the thread, TB. Truly a fascinating deconstruction of means and motives that are not obviously in evidence. You have a genuine talent for circumstantial inference that is well-matched to the Godfather plot line.
The
Mario Puzo / FFC collaboration produced a plot of impressive sophistication and nuance, especially intriguing being the elements of the story that are merely implied - not stated outright - but are nevertheless essential to a complete understanding of the characters and the various dynamics in play, as you've accurately expounded.
You've made a believer out of me. Clearly Fredo must have been into the conspiracy far deeper than meets the naked eye