Charles E. Burchfield's Dreams, Journals, March 17, 1942

A dream –

On board a ship which has just left New York. A friend was to have sent my passage money to the boat, but failed to do so. I was considered a stowaway, and the captain, a stern, elderly man was scolding me. I tried to explain about my fare, but he would not believe me. He told me I would first have to be punished, and then put to work with the crew. He led me down dim-lighted stairs from one deck to another; when we had reached the lowest, I was taken to the "flogging" room. Here were rings in the walls, at various heights. My hands were fastened up, and the captain then proceeded to whip me savagely with a long strip - but to my great joy, he deliberately missed me throughout (12 lashes were to be given). As I was loosened, he told the ships doctor to see to my "wounds". Turning to the Captain I said in a low voice, "God Bless you for that Sir". "What did you say" he asked bending toward me. I repeated my remark, and he smiled understandingly. As the doctor led me away, he said touching my shoulder "Is this the worst place?" Believing that I was supposed to pretend to have really been whipped I said "Yes, perhaps a little Unguentine would help". I was taken to a cabin up above, where sailor’s clothes were laid out for me. As I started to undress, I awoke.

Charles E. Burchfield, March 17, 1942