1 (8 oz.) pkg. chopped dates
1 1/2 c. boiling water
2 tbsp. shortening (Crisco)
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 egg, slightly beaten
2 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cream of tartar
1 c. walnuts, chopped
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Put chopped dates into a large mixing bowl. Pour boiling water over them. Add shortening, sugar, and salt and set aside. When cool, add egg, flour sifted with soda and cream of tartar. Add nuts and vanilla; beat well. Bake in a large bread pan (9 x 5 1/2 x 2 3/4), greased and floured. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/4 hours. Delicious served with cream cheese.