1 lb. dates, pitted
1 tsp. baking soda
2 c. sugar
2 tbsp. shortening
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 c. chopped nuts
1/2 c. sugar
3/4 c. water

Divide dates in half. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1/2 dates adding 1 teaspoon baking soda and let cool.

Cream 1 cup sugar, shortening, egg, flour, baking powder and nuts; add to the date mixture. Bake in loaf pan for 45 minutes at 325. Cut into squares after cooled.

In saucepan combine the other of dates with 1 cup sugar and 3/4 cup water. Boil until thick enough to spread over loaf. After cooled serve with whipped cream and cherry.