White Clam Chowder

I

Ingredients

 4 pounds clams in shells, scrubbed and drained

4 strips bacon, cut in 1-inch pieces

1 large yellow onion, finely diced

1/4 teaspoon thyme

1/4 teaspoon MSG

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

2 large boiling potatoes, cut in 1/2-inch cubes

Salt, pepper

3 tablespoons butter

4 tablespoons flour

1 cup half-and-half