Easy French Bread

Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup lukewarm water. Combine with 1 3/4 cups water, salt and flour. Knead until smooth. Place dough in greased bowl, cover and let rise for 1 or more hours or until doubled in bulk. Punch dough down and let rise a second time. Knead dough and divide in half. Shape into two long loaves on greased baking sheet. Cut slits in top for expansion. Cover and let rise again for 1 hour. Brush tops with milk and bake at 400 degrees for 40 minutes or until golden brown.