1 lb. dates, cut
1/2 tsp. baking soda in 1/2 c. boiling water
1 tbsp. butter
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. hot milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. flour
1 egg

Mix soda and water; pour over dates and let stand. Mix. Cream butter, sugar, egg, salt, vanilla, milk, flour, dates and nuts. Bake in a greased loaf pan for 45 minutes in 325 to 350 degree oven.