1 c. shortening, softened (but not melted)
2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c. water or buttermilk
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 1/2 c. flour

Mix shortening, brown sugar and eggs. Stir in water or buttermilk. Sift dry ingredients together and add to mixture. Drop by spoonful on ungreased cookie sheet. Press down a little, then place 1 teaspoon filling on each cookie. Cover with a little dough. Bake in 350 degree oven until light brown.

FILLING:

1 1/2 c. dates, chopped
1/2 c. nuts, chopped
3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. water

Cook altogether, except nuts, slowly stirring constantly until thick. Add nuts and cool before putting on cookies.