Use extra large cucumbers - the bigger the better. Peel and cut into 1 inch rings; core all seeds. Use 2 gallons of rings. Soak overnight in 2 cups lime and 2 1/2 gallons water. Wash well and soak 15 minutes in clear water. Put into a big pot and mix: 1 cup clear pickling vinegar, 1 ounce of red food coloring with 1 tablespoon alum and enough water to cover rings and simmer for 3 hours. DO NOT LET BOIL, then pour off liquid (drain) and add: 12 cups sugar, 3 cups white vinegar, 38 ounces red hots (candy), 3 cups water, and 8 cinnamon sticks.

Bring to a boil and when sugar is melted, pour over rings. Let stand overnight. Next day, pour this off and bring to a boil. Put back on rings and let stand overnight. Next day do the same thing and on 4th day, after you bring this mixture to a boil, pour over the rings which you have packed in the jars and seal. Makes 11 pints.