1 cup pitted prunes (cut in small pieces)
1 cup hot water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs
1 tsp. each of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Simmer prunes 5 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.

Sift dry ingredients together, add prune mixture and remaining ingredients. Blend 1 minute thoroughly. Pour into a greased and floured 8 1/2 x 13 x 2-inch pan.

Bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes. Cut in bars. Ice if desired.