1 c. chopped dates
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1 c. sugar
1 tbsp. shortening
1 egg
1 c. chopped walnuts
1 1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla

Remove stones from dates and cut into small pieces. Sprinkle over them 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over this.

Allow the mixture to cool. Cream shortening and sugar together, add the egg without separating. Add the walnut meats and vanilla and beat.

Add the date mixture and mix well. Add the flour, sifted with the salt. Turn batter into a greased and lightly floured 8 or 9 inch square pan.

Bake at 325-350°F for 45-50 minutes.

Whipped cream should be allowed to partly freeze before serving on warm cake.