1 c. dates or raisins (cut the dates)
1/2 c. nuts
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. + 3 tbsp. hot water
2 c. sifted flour
1 tbsp. cocoa
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chocolate chips
1 c. white syrup
1 c. shortening
1 tsp. salt

Add baking soda to cut dates. Pour hot water over dates, cream shortening, syrup and eggs, add half of chocolate chips and half the nuts. Pour in greased and floured 9"x13" pan, then sprinkle cake with chocolate chips, nuts on top of cake. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.