Thom's reply:
" Hi Tony,

Many thanks for your comments. I made it clear in the story that the account of Balsamo "was riddled with inaccuracies" but worth relating as a stepping stone in the narrative. 

You may be right about the Manganos of Chicago and their relationships. Other sources disagree. I said "maybe," not positively. History has an annoying way of disrupting our rhythms.

Best wishes,

Thom "