Peasant Bean Soup Recipe

1 pound dried great northern beans, washed and sorted 2-1/2 quarts cold water, divided 3 medium carrots, sliced 3 celery ribs, sliced 2 medium onions, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 can (16 ounces) stewed tomatoes, cut up 1 to 2 bay leaves 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste