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.