smoothed the waters

I was astonished when Manuel started tearing into Steve in the auditorium with other members present. Outside later I pulled Manuel aside. I was forceful. Pointed out that it was very disrespectful to have such a conversation in a public space. That he was being selfish. He had not considered lifestyle issues. I thought it owed Steve an apology. Most surprising to me was that he actually listened to me. I half-expected him to take a swing at me... Wow. Finally got through. Wow. Good. Let's all move on.