To syrup from drained mandarins add enough water to make 1 c.
Soften gelatin in ¼ c. cold water.
Beat egg yolks until light and fluffy; stir in sugar, salt and orange syrup mixture. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Add softened gelatin and stir until it is dissolved. Cool.
Reserve several mandarin segments (at least 6) for garnishing