In “The Devil and Tom Walker” where does Tom Walker meet the devil?

In "The Devil and Tom Walker," Tom Walker meets the devil in a desolate and gloomy forest that is owned by the devil himself. The story describes the forest as a "forlorn-looking place" where "thick branches of trees shut out the light," and "a few scattered pines stood like dark, solemn sentinels." It is in this dark and eerie setting that Tom Walker has his first encounter with the devil.

The story recounts how Tom Walker, who is known for his miserly ways and greedy nature, takes a shortcut through the forest on his way home one day. As he walks through the forest, he hears a voice calling his name. When he turns around, he sees a figure sitting on a tree stump, with his face covered by a large black hat. The figure introduces himself as Old Scratch, a nickname for the devil, and offers to make Tom Walker rich beyond his wildest dreams in exchange for a small favor.

The scene is particularly eerie and filled with foreshadowing of the sinister events to come. The descriptions of the forest and the devil's appearance create a sense of foreboding and unease in the reader. The use of the nickname "Old Scratch" also adds to the ominous atmosphere of the scene, as it suggests the devil's age and experience in deceiving and corrupting mortals.

Overall, the meeting between Tom Walker and the devil in "The Devil and Tom Walker" is a pivotal moment in the story, setting the stage for the greed, corruption, and ultimate downfall of the protagonist.