FADE IN:

A passionate strain of MUSIC interrupted before it develops. Then a solo trumpet plays a solemn waltz. The MAIN TITLE is presented over BLACK; the familiar puppeteer's hand:

Mario Puzo's
THE GODFATHER
PART III

TITLE FADES OUT.

ARCHBISHOP (V.O.)
(Italian)
A gift of this magnitude, this sweet spirit of
charity, demands a reward.

INT. MICHAEL'S SUITE/LIVING ROOM - DAY

The Archbishop raises a religious medal on a gold chain.

Archbishop ROCCO GRAZIADEI from Palermo. Member of the Holy See, confidant of the Pope, and head of the IOR, the Institute per le Opere di Religione, the Vatican Bank. The Archbishop speaks no English; perfect Italian, and sometimes Sicilian. He is accompanied by his secretary, MONSIGNOR ZIZOLA, who translates, and several young priests.

ARCHBISHOP
(Italian)
The Order of St. Sylvester, degree of
Knight Commander with star, is bestowed
upon Michael Corleone for outstanding
service to the church.
VIEW ON MICHAEL approaching his sixties. His face reflects his sins; the face of a bulldog, but there is also a new warmth and humor.

MICHAEL
(Sicilian)
I am honored, Excellency.

ARCHBISHOP
(looking around)
What a splendid palace this is. Of course
the Holy Church does not approve of
gaming and the love of money, but
occasionally, a small bet, in moderation...
(chuckles)

MICHAEL
(Sicilian)
Our family is selling the casinos, Archbishop.
Now we are a Cultural Foundation. My
associates and I were honored to deposit
our money with the Catholic Bank of
Signor Vanni. Now, for important business
reasons, we must withdraw it, but we
will leave the twenty million dollars to
help the poor of Sicily. It's in the spirit of
the Foundation of Vito Andolini Corleone
that this gift is given.
ARCHBISHOP
(Sicilian)
Withdraw it immediately?
(pause)
The Church thanks you. We are in your debt.
If one day we could do a small service for you?

MICHAEL
(Sicilian)
Your blessing, Excellency.

The Archbishop blesses all in the room.