Tomato Bisque(A Wonderful Winter Soup.)

Cook bacon until crisp. Chop into small pieces and set aside. Saute the carrots and celery in the bacon fat until tender and drain. Combine in a large pot the chicken broth, tomatoes (crushed), sauteed carrots and celery, bacon, spices and salt and pepper to taste.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes or until all the flavors have blended. Remove from heat and purée in a blender.

Return to pan and add the cream.

Heat for several minutes but do not boil. Serve immediately with fresh hot French bread.