Puree of Dried Beans

Mash and soak 1 qt. of dried beans in lukewarm water over night. In the morning drain and cover with fresh cold water, boil an hour, drain again; just cover with fresh water; add quarter of a teaspoonful of cooking soda, 1 lb. of ham, a bay leaf, an onion and a carrot; boil until soft. When done, take out the ham and press the vegetables, (onion, carrot and beans) through a sieve. Return them to the kettle, add a tablespoonful of butter and enough milk to make the required thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Let boil once and serve