3/4 c. walnuts
3 tbsp. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 c. dates, chopped
3/4 c. boiling water
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix walnuts, dates, baking soda and salt together with a fork. Add shortening and water; let stand 20 minutes. Beat eggs with fork. Add vanilla, then sugar and flour; beat with fork. Add date mixture, just enough to blend.

Grease a 9 x 5 x 3-inch pan. Pour in batter.

Bake 1 hour and 5 minutes at 350°F or until done.