The Devil and Daniel Webster is a short story by Stephen Vincent Benet, first published in 1937. It tells the story of Jabez Stone, a poor farmer from New Hampshire who sells his soul to the devil, known as Mr. Scratch, in exchange for seven years of good luck. When his luck runs out, Stone turns to the famous orator and statesman Daniel Webster for help. Webster agrees to represent Stone in a trial against Mr. Scratch, and the two of them travel to the underworld to face the devil in court. With the help of a jury of famous figures from history, Webster is able to prove that Stone's contract with the devil was invalid, and Stone is freed from his debt. The story is a classic example of American folklore, and has been adapted into several films and plays. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of making deals with the devil, and a celebration of the power of justice and the law.
By Stephen Vincent Benet · First published 1936 · Genre: Fantasy, Folklore, Historical Fiction · 5 chapters