Section 9, pp. 90-108 Summary

Two unnamed men are discussing what should be done about the current situation. They want to do all they can to protect their own interests, which are mafia connections. They are worried that if Don Arena should confess, it will implicate many important men in the murders, even Minister Mancuso and Honourable Member Livigni. The conspirators decide that, since Marchica's confession is probably the best piece of evidence that the police have, it is necessary to provide Marchica with an undeniable alibi. They propose to find two men, known everywhere for their honesty, who will swear that Marchica was a thousand miles away at the time of the murder. Marchica can claim that he only confessed to lies under torture.

Captain Bellodi and Sergeant D'Antona are interrogating Don Arena in the captain's office. Don Arena's poise is unflappable, and...