1 c. pitted dates, chopped
1/2 tsp. baking soda

Place this in saucepan 1/2 hour ahead. (Pour over this 1 1/2 cups hot water, don't drain use this liquid.)

1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt

Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Beat well. Mix flour, soda, and salt. Add flour mixture alternately with cool dates to cream mixture ending with dry ingredients. Pour into 9 x 13 inch greased floured pan.

TOPPING:

1 (6 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts, chopped
1/2 c. granulated sugar

Mix and sprinkle over batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.