1 c. hot water
1 1/4 c. finely cut dates or raisins
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. shortening
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts

In bowl pour hot water over dates. Let stand until cool. Cream together sugar, eggs, shortening and vanilla until fluffy. Sift together flour, soda, and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternating with date mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in nuts.

Pour batter in a greased and floured 9x5x3 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-55 minutes.