In pudding pan, dissolve 1 1/2 cups brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water.

Mix together 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, 1 cup flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 cup dates, 1/2 cup nuts, 2 tablespoons Crisco, pinch of salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Pour in water and sugar mixture. Bake at 350 degrees about 30 minutes until brown.