3/4 c. nuts, chopped
1 c. dates, chopped
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. shortening
3/4 c. boiling water
2 eggs
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. all-purpose sifted flour

Combine nuts, dates, soda and salt into mixing bowl. Add shortening and boiling water. Allow to stand for 15 minutes. Stir to blend. Beat eggs slightly. Add vanilla. Stir in the sugar and sifted flour. Add to date mixture. Do not overmix. Place in greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan. Bake 1 hour in a 350 degree oven. When done, toothpick inserted in center will come out clean. Cool before removing. Loosen sides with a spatula. For perfect slicing allow the loaf to cool for several hours.