Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, November 20, 1945

Nov. 20 – Tues.

Dream –

In a deserted farmhouse in southern Wyoming (N.Y.) County – a criminal of some sort comes into the house intent on killing me; but while he is crouching at a doorway, waiting for me, I sneak up on him and hit him over the head with an axe, killing him. I have no regret over what I have done, since it was in self-defense, but I realize if I can escape from the place without leaving any trace, I will be saved a lot of trouble. I conceal him in a closet, and after carefully cleaning up after him, I attempt to leave, going up a flight of ancient stone steps, leading down to a cellar. A tangle of dried burdock stalks is not enough to hide me from a deputy sheriff who suddenly makes his appearance. Realizing it is useless to try to get away, and feeling sure he will sooner or later find the slain gangster, I tell him what has happened. He seems inclined to believe my story, but says that he must place me under arrest until an investigation can be made, at this point I said to myself, this can’t be a dream, I am surely awake.

In his car to a village. To the home of the sheriff. In the kitchen, there are others persons there and the wife of the sheriff is just serving supper. They all seem cordial. Worried about my car which had been parked along the road, I asked permission, (with the deputy accompanying me) to bring it to the jail. This is refused. I then ask him to telephone my wife, and tell her what has happened. He goes out, and after a bit returns, saying that all the lines in that direction are down. While I was wondering what to do, I awoke.

Noon – Martha + her friend Shirley from Cleveland arrive. To Central station to get them. Then downtown to see Cathie + eat lunch at Deco. Then to market (turkey in A.M. from Johnny).

Dinner – girls showing works.

Evening – talking etc.

Charles Burchfield, Journals, November 20, 1945