6 pounds fresh littleneck clams
10 cups of water
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large sweet onion, diced
1 1/2 cups sliced and cleaned leeks
4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
4 fresh thyme springs
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons flour
2 pounds yukon gold potatoes, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper