Seared Scallops With Fennel without chile dressing

1 ounce bacon , cut crosswise into thin pieces 8 (1 inch) sea scallops , foot removed, if necessary, and patted dry kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper[...]

1 lb fresh sea scallop , dry (many are wet-packed and thus difficult to sear) 4 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 cup whole milk sea salt or[...]