1/2 cup sugar
1/4 tsp. salt (optional)
3 egg yolks
4 cups milk or half 'n half

Beat 1/2 cup of sugar into egg yolks, add salt and stir in milk or half 'n half slowly. Cook over low heat or in a double boiler until it coats the back of a spoon. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Combine and beat until stiff:

1/3 tsp. salt
3 egg whites

Add and beat well:

1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Add to first mixture and then add vanilla. If desired, add rum to suit taste.