1 c. dates
1 c. boiling water
1 tsp. baking soda

Mix the above and let cool.

1 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. butter or shortening
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. walnuts
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. baking powder

Mix all together and bake at 350 degrees for about an hour. Check to see if done with toothpick.