1 1/4 c. oatmeal
3/4 c. Crisco or butter
1 1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. brown sugar
1 3/4 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Mix dry ingredients, add shortening as for pie crust. Cut in. Divide mixture in half. Line greased pan with half of oatmeal mixture. Then spread on date filling which has been cooled. Spread on remaining oatmeal mixture. Pat firm. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in 350 degree oven in 9"x13" pan. Cut in squares.

DATE FILLING:

1 c. water
1/3 c. white sugar
1 pkg. dates

Cook until thick and soft then cool.