1 pkg. dates
1 tsp. baking soda, dissolved in 1 c. boiling water

Pour water over dates and let stand until other ingredients are mixed.

1 1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
1 c. chopped pecans
1 tsp. vanilla
Pinch of salt

Add date mixture.

Add:

1 1/2 c. sifted flour

Beat well.

Bake in 8 or 9 inch square pan (greased and floured) at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Test as for cake. Serve with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top each piece.