1/2 lb. dates (heaping c.)
1/2 c. sugar
2 tbsp. flour
1 c. water
3/4 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda in 2 tbsp. hot water
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. sifted flour
Salt to taste
1/2 c. chopped nuts
15 oz. pkg. orange slices (candy)

Cream shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs; add soda mixture and vanilla. Stir in flour, salt, and nuts. Spread half of mixture in bottom of greased pan, 9 x 13 inch. Cover with orange slices cut lengthwise. Spread with date mixture. Top with remaining batter. Bake in 350 degree oven for 40 minutes. Cool and cut.