1 (6 1/2 oz.) pkg. dates
1 1/2 c. boiling water
2 tbsp. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 1/2 c. flour
1 egg
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. nuts

Cut dates in quarters. Add shortening, and over this pour the water. Cool. Add well beaten egg. Sift dry ingredients together. Add to date mixture. Mix thoroughly. Add vanilla and nuts. Place in greased bread pan (12 x 4 inches). Let stand 15 minutes. Bake 1 hour (longer time may be required for thicker loaf) at 350 degrees.