1 3/4 c. sifted all-purpose flour
2 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. dates, finely chopped
1 c. boiling water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. nuts, chopped
1 (6 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips

Sift flour, cocoa and salt. Mix boiling water, dates and soda. Cool. Cream shortening and sugar and eggs. Beat. Alternately add flour and date mixture, blending well after each addition. Add vanilla. Spread in a greased pan 13 x 9 inches. Sprinkle with nuts and chocolate chips. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.