Manhattan Clam Chowder

Ingredients

• 1 c. chopped onion
• 2/3 c. finely chopped celery
• 2 tsp. finely chopped green pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
• 1 large potato, diced
• 3 c. hot water
• 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes, chopped
• 1 pt. fresh clams, minced or 2 (8 oz.) cans
• 2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/2 leaf thyme, crumbled
• dash of cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp. minced parsley