CRUST:

1 1/2 c. sifted flour
3/4 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. soft butter
1/4 tsp. salt

TOPPING:

1 (6 oz.) pkg. butterscotch chips
2 tbsp. vegetable shortening
1 tbsp. water
1/2-2 c. chopped nuts
1/4 c. light corn syrup
1/4 tsp. salt

Combine flour, butter, brown sugar and salt. Mix until crumbly. Press into 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare topping in top of double boiler or microwave. Combine chips, shortening, corn syrup, water and salt. Cook over hot water until smooth. Blend in nuts, if desired, or save them for sprinkling over the top. Bake 8 minutes at 375 degrees. Cut in bars while still warm.