Pick over peas. Cover with cold water and let soak overnight. Put bacon in a kettle with 2 quarts of water, bring to a boil, and simmer about 1 hour. Add drained peas and salt and return to a boil. Continue cooking gently for about 30 minutes or until peas are almost tender. Add rice, bring to a boil, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Remove bacon and reserve. Drain peas and rice and put in a warm oven for a few minutes until rice is fluffy. Slice bacon and serve with the peas and rice, along with hot corn bread and butter.