Bean and Olive Soup

Cover the beans with water and soak overnight.

Drain the beans and place them in a kettle. And one and one-half quarts water. Tie the cloves, peppercorns and allspice berries in a muslin bag and add to the kettle. Add the ham hock, onion, garlic and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for about one and one-half hours, until the beans are tender.</