Wash figs carefully, then place in large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let stand 10 minutes. Drain; rinse in cold water and drain again. Be sure to drain until fruit is free of water. Remove stems and crush figs. Measure and add 1/2 the amount of sugar as figs. Put in large kettle; add a very little water to start cooking. Boil slowly, stirring only enough to keep fruit from sticking to kettle. Cook until thick and clear.