“Michael Corleone: [after learning of Zasa's assassination] Don't ever give an order like that again. Not while I'm alive.
Vincent Mancini: Uncle Mike, it had to be done. You were too sick to make a decision. I got the go ahead from Neri and Connie.
Michael Corleone: Connie.
Vincent Mancini: It was the right thing to do.
Michael Corleone: It was not the right thing to do. I command this family, right or wrong. It was not what I wanted! Understand?
Vincent Mancini: Yes. [Michael looks at Neri]
Al Neri: Yes. [Michael looks at Connie for a long time]
Connie: Yes!
Michael Corleone: Vincent, help me to my bed. I want to talk to you alone. [Vincent helps Michael into his bed] My brother, your father, he and I. Opposites. But I never doubted his love. He would do anything for me. But his temper. Clouded his judgment. I don't want to see the same thing happen to you.”
More from Mario Puzo
“Michael Corleone: If someone is going around this city saying, 'Fuck Michael Corleone,'…”
“Vincent Mancini: You like to gamble? Why don't we go to Atlantic City? My town. I'll show…”
“Uncle Michael, listen—I know you're into banks and Wall Street, but everyone knows you're…”
“Altobello, you FUCK! You deceitful old fuck!”