• Many Russian rivers have been rendered almost into human characters. The ordinary speech is still of Mother Vólga. In the Nóvgorod ballads there is a mention of Father Volkhov, much as we speak of Father Thames, and there were very great possibilities of the development of a river mythology which did not succeed. It is worth observing that in one ballad dealing with Vasíli Buslávich, the hero of Nóvgorod, this semi-comic figure is twitted by the men of Nóvgorod that he will one day turn the Volkhov into Kvass ( q.v. ): i.e. he will one day set the Thames on fire. 66
• “ The Wood Sprite. ” Léshi is a peculiar feature in Russian folklore. He is somewhat similar to Pan, but is also represented as having copper arms, and an iron body, terms which refer to colour rather than to material. Sometimes he has claws for hands.
• Yagá-Búra. This is the same as Bába Yagá, but is specific reference to the Witch who raises the Wind.

The underworld is the home of magic. This charm, to be said by a soldier going to the wars, may be of interest.