1 c. dates
1 3/4 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1/2 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 well-beaten eggs
1 3/4 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt

TOPPING:

1 (6 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped nuts
1/2 c. white sugar

Cut up dates; sprinkle with 1 teaspoon baking soda. Pour over 1 1/2 cup boiling water. Let stand until completely cooled. Cream butter. Add sugar, then eggs. Add date mixture. Sift together flour, salt, 3/4 teaspoon baking soda. Add to first mixture and mix well. Pour into greased and floured 9x13 inch pan.

Mix together all topping ingredients and put on top of butter. Bake at 350 degrees about 30 minutes or until done.