ould be along
soon.

"We went on till we came in sight of the city and as we advanced
towards the wharf, I saw the whole face of the earth covered with
people, all anxiously looking on towards the boat. The captain and
myself were standing on the bow-deck; he pointed his finger at me, and
people slung their hats, and huzzaed for Colonel Crockett. It struck me
with astonishment to hear a strange people huzzaing for me, and made me
feel sort of queer. It took me so uncommon unexpected, as I had no idea
of attracting attention. But I had to meet it, and so I stepped on to
the wharf, where the folks came crowding around me, saying, 'Give me
the hand of an honest man.' I did not know what all this meant: but
some gentleman took hold of me, and pressing through the crowd, put me
into an elegant barouche, drawn by four fine horses; they then told me
to bow to the people: I did so, and with much difficulty we moved off.
The streets were crowded to a great distance, and the windows full of
people, looking out, I suppose, to see the wild man. I thought I had
rather be in the wilderness with my gun and dogs, than to be attracting
all that fuss. I had never seen the like before, and did not know
exactly what to say or do. After some time we reached the United States
Hotel, in Chesnut Street."

"The crowd had followed me filling up the street, and pressing into the
house to shake hands. I was conducted up stairs, and walked out on a
platform, drew off my hat, and bowed round to the people. They cried
out from all quarters, 'A speech, a speech, Colonel Crockett.'

"After the noise had quit, so I could be heard, I said to them the
following words:

"'GENTLEMEN OF PHILADELPHIA:

"'My visit to your city is rather accidental. I had no expectation of
attracting any uncommon attention. I am travelling for my health,
without the least wish of exciting the people in such times of high
political feeling. I do not wish to encourage it. I am unable at this
time to find language suitable to return my gratitude to the citizens
of Philadelphia. However, I am almost induced to believe it
flattery--perhaps a burlesque. This is new to me, yet I see nothing but
friendship in your faces; and if your curiosity is to hear the
backwoodsman, I will assure you I am illy prepared to address this most
enlightened people. However, gentlemen, if this is a curiosity to you,
if you will meet me to-morrow, at one o'clock, I will endeavor to
address you, in