The Godfather

 “The Godfather” By Mario Puzo
 
60
livelihoods out of greed.” 
The only sign of Sollozzo’s disappointment was a quick flickering of his eyes around the 
room, as if he hoped Hagen or Sonny would speak in his support. Then he said, “Are 
you worried about security for your two million?” 
The Don smiled coldly. “No,” he said. 
Sollozzo tried again. “The Tattaglia family will guarantee your investment also.” 
It was then that Sonny Corleone made an unforgivable error in judgment and procedure. 
He said eagerly, “The Tattaglia family guarantees the return of our investment without 
any percentage from us?” 
Hagen was horrified at this break. He saw the Don turn cold, malevolent eyes on his 
eldest son, who froze in uncomprehending dismay. Sollozzo’s eyes flickered again but 
this time with satisfaction. He had discovered a chink in the Don’s fortress. When the 
Don spoke his voice held a dismissal. “Young people are greedy,” he said. “And today 
they have no manners. They interrupt their elders. They meddle. But I have a 
sentimental weakness for my children and I have spoiled them. As you see. Signor 
Sollozzo, my no is final. Let me say that I myself wish you good fortune in your 
business. It has no conflict with my own. I’m sorry that I had to disappoint you.” 
Sollozzo bowed, shook the Don’s hand and let Hagen take him to his car outside. There 
was no expression on his face when he said good-bye to Hagen. 
Back in the room, Don Corleone asked Hagen, “What did you think of that man?” 
“He’s a Sicilian,” Hagen said dryly. 
The Don nodded his head thoughtfully. Then he turned to his son and said gently, 
“Santino, never let anyone outside the family know what you are thinking. Never let 
them know what you have under your fingernails. I think your brain is going soft from all 
that comedy you play with that young girl. Stop it and pay attention to business. Now get 
out of my sight.” 
Hagen saw the surprise on Sonny’s face, then anger at his father’s reproach. Did he 
really think the Don would be ignorant of his conquest, Hagen wondered. And did he 
really not know what a dangerous mistake he had made this morning? If that were true, 
Hagen would never wish to be the Consigliere to the Don of Santino Corleone. 
Don Corleone waited until Sonny had left the room. Then he sank back into his leather 
armchair and motioned brusquely for a drink. Hagen poured him a glass of anisette. The 

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