The Devil and Daniel Webster

Poor farmer Jabez Stone (James Craig) is at his wits end as he is faced with losing the farm he shares with his mother (Jane Darwell) and wife “Mary” (Anne Shirley). In a fit of pique, he declares that he would even sell his soul to the devil if he could keep their home. Miraculously, a dapper gent appears called “Scratch” (Walter Huston), who suggests that there might be a way out of his predicament. He can have pretty much unlimited funds provided he signs a contract that will transfer ownership of his soul in seven years. Desperate, he agrees and for the ensuing period of time, Jabez pays off his debts and buys new tools and supplies. While the women are shopping, Jabez meets and becomes friends with the celebrated congressman, lawyer and orator Daniel Webster (Edward Arnold), a friend of his wife's family and a beloved figure who champions the cause of the poor farmers.