Vazuza and Volga

Volga and Vazuza quarrel over which of them is wiser, stronger and more worthy of respect. They argue for a long time, but neither gains the upper hand. At last they choose a race as a test. They will sleep, then race to the Caspian Sea. The first to wake and reach the sea will win the contest. Volga goes to sleep, and Vazuza lies down beside her. During the night Vazuza rises without waking Volga. She takes the nearest, straightest course and flows ahead. When Volga wakes, she sets off at her proper pace and catches Vazuza at Zubtsof.

Vazuza is frightened by Volga's manner. She calls Volga her older sister and pleads for her to take Vazuza in her arms and carry her to the Caspian. When spring comes, Vazuza wakes before Volga. She rouses Volga from winter sleep.