2 1/2 c. oatmeal
1 c. brown sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 c. flour
1 c. shortening
1/2 tsp. baking soda

Mix together in a large mixing bowl all dry ingredients. Then add shortening, use a pastry blender to cut shortening into pea size pieces. Add 4 to 5 tablespoons boiling water to mixture, stirring with a fork. Divide mixture in half. Place half mixture in a well greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan; reserve remaining mixture for topping.

FILLING:

1 c. sugar
1 pkg. dates, cut into sm. pieces
1 c. water
1 1/2 c. nuts

Boil together in a small to medium saucepan until mixture has thickened. Let cool, then spread over oatmeal mixture in pan. Sprinkle remaining dry mixture on top. Bake at 325 to 350 degree oven until brown on top. Let cool, then cut in small 2 x 2 inch pieces. Cooking time is 25 to 30 minutes.