During the analysis of two dreams of a patient long in treatment, real homicidal impulses were voiced toward the analyst following the thought that the analyst might be losing interest. These occurred in the context of analyzing the various aspects of the patient's Oedipal problems. The first dream showed one defense concerning this impulse,—an urge to leave the analyst. Concern whether the analyst was frightened and thus would rid himself of the patient enabled the analyst to acknowledge his own concern as well as his ability to set it aside. This proved reassuring and helped the patient to control his impulses. At the same time, his evocation of the analyst's fear was a gratification of hostile wishes. The point is made that with some patients to 'merely analyze' their aggressions is to reinstitute the relationship of helpless angry child and all-powerful parent.