Tom made a quote in the script which was dropped:

MICHAEL
I asked about Fredo?

HAGEN
The new government arrested him,
held him for a couple of days with
a lot of the other casino people,
including Roth's brother, Sam. The
American Embassy arranged flights
for citizens; I'm not sure, but I
think he's somewhere in New York.

MICHAEL
I want you to reach Fredo. I know
he's scared, but have one of our
people reach him. Assure him that
there will be no reprisals. Tell
him that I know Roth misled him.

HAGEN
My information is that Fredo
thought it was a kidnapping. Roth
assured him nothing would happen to
you.

MICHAEL
(indicating Rocco and
Neri on the balcony)
They can come in now.


Was Tom trying to save Fredo's life? Michael doesn't respond to this until he talks to Fredo by implying Fredo could not have been stupid enough to believe this story.