3 slices bacon, chopped
4 c. boiling water
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. diced potatoes
1 c. finely diced carrots
1 c. finely diced celery
1 c. chopped onion
1 (10 1/2 oz.) can minced clams
3/4 c. strained clam juice
1 c. chopped, canned tomatoes
1/2 tsp. thyme
1/4 tsp. pepper
3 tbsp. butter
3 tbsp. flour

Cook bacon slightly; add boiling water, salt, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion; simmer uncovered 15 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender. Add clams and juice, tomatoes, thyme and pepper. Melt butter; blend with flour, then carefully stir into chowder. Simmer 15 minutes longer.