Clams, canned, minced, juices reserved (about three 6.5 ounce cans)

1. Drain clam juice from minced clams. Combine the reserved clam juice with 16 ounces of bottled juice to equal 3 cups.

2. Cook the bacon slowly in a soup pot over medium heat until lightly crisp, about 7 minutes.

3. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 4-6 minutes.

4. Add the flour and cook over low heat, stirring with a wooden spoon, for 2-3 minutes.

5. Whisk in the clam juice, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The liquid should be the consistency of heavy cream. If it is too thick, add more clam juice to adjust the consistency.

6. Add the bay leaf and fresh thyme.

7. Add the potatoes and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.

8. Meanwhile, place the clams and cream in a saucepan and simmer together until the clams are cooked, about 5-8 minutes. When the potatoes are tender, add the clams and cream to the soup base. Simmer for 5 minutes.

9. Stir in the sherry. Season to taste with salt, pepper, Tabasco, and Worcesteshire sauce.

10. Serve in heated bowls with the crackers on the side.