Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   2      pounds        asparagus -- fresh
   2      quarts        water
   4      tablespoons   butter or margarine
   4      tablespoons   flour
   1      cup           milk
                        Salt
                        Pepper

Preparation:

If the ends of the asparagus are woody, cut them off. If necessary, cut asparagus into 3 or 4 inch lengths. Boil or steam in salted water until just tender. The cooking time will vary, but it should take about 10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup liquid. In a saucepan melt butter. Stir flour in a small quantity of water until a paste is formed. Blend flour paste into melted butter. Add milk and simmer until a light sauce is formed. If sauce seems to thick, add portion of reserved liquid. Add asparagus and simmer until hot and ready to serve. Salt and pepper to taste. Servings: 6