1 c. chopped dates
1 1/4 c. hot water
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3/4 c. shortening
2 c. flour
1 c. sugar
2 eggs, unbeaten

Put dates in small bowl, add soda and water. Let stand. Mix shortening, salt, sugar and egg together. Sift baking powder with flour. Add date mixture and flour alternately to batter. Mix and pour in greased 9 x 13 pan.

For a topping mix together:

1/2 c. brown sugar
2/3 lg. pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped walnuts

Sprinkle topping evenly on cake. Bake 35 minutes at 350 degrees.