Manhattan Clam Chowder

Name: Manhattan Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 2 dozen fresh cherrystone clams or chowder clams; 4 cups water; ¼ pound salt pork, diced; 2 onions, finely chopped; 1½ cups chopped celery; 4 potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 cups tomato juice; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper; ½ teaspoon thyme