1 lb Dried small white beans
8 c  Water
1    Meaty ham bone or 2 cups --
Diced cooked ham
1 c  Celery -- finely chopped
1    Onion -- finely chopped
2 tb Parsley -- finely chopped
1 ts Salt (optional)
1/4 ts Pepper
1    Bay leaf

In large pan, heat beans in water. Boil gently for 2 minutes, turn off
heat and let stand 1 hour. Pour into slow-cooking pot. Add remaining
ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 12 to 14 hours or until beans are
very soft. Remove bay leaf and ham bone. Cut meat off bone and return to
beans. Serve hot. Makes 6 to 8 servings. Beans may be soaked overnight if
preferred. Excellent winter supper with fresh bread and a crisp salad or
relishes.