3/4 c. melted shortening (part butter for flavor)
1 c. dark brown sugar
2 c. sifted flour
1 tsp. baking soda
2 c. 3 minute rolled oats
1 tsp. vanilla

FILLING:

8 oz. or a little more dates
8 oz. dried apricots
1/2 c. dark brown sugar

Cut apricots into very small pieces. Cook apricots (add enough cold water to cook soft). Add brown sugar and cook a minute or two. Cut up dates very fine and add to mixture. Cool.

Blend melted shortening and brown sugar. Sift soda and flour together. Add to shortening and brown sugar. Add rolled oats and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Work into dough with hands. Press half on well buttered pan. Spread on fruit-top with remaining crumb mixture, pressing in filling with back of spoon. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.