1/2 lb. dates, chopped in sm. pieces
2 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking soda
2 c. boiling water
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 lb. butter
1 c. chopped walnuts
3 c. sifted flour
1 oz. brandy (opt.) (brandy may be added to ingredients and/or pour over loaves)

Cream well butter and sugar. Add dates and baking soda. Mix well, then add 2 cups boiling water and let stand until cool. Then add 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla and add to this 3 cups sifted flour and 1 cup chopped walnuts which have been dusted with flour. Pour into 2 loaf pans that have been lined with wax paper. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Cool, then pour brandy over loaves.