Shrimp and Corn Chowder with Garlic Croutons

Name: Shrimp and Corn Chowder with Garlic Croutons
Ingredients: Twelve 1/2-inch-thick slices Italian or French bread; 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, 1 halved and 1 minced; 1 teaspoon unsalted butter; 2 slices bacon, finely diced; 1 cup corn kernels; 2 large scallions, thinly sliced crosswise; Scant 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups bottled clam juice (12 ounces); 1 1/2 cups water; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 1/4 pounds shelled and deveined large shrimp, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon dry vermouth (optional)