1 pkg. dates (pitted, about 7 oz.) chopped

1 c. boiling water

1 tsp. baking soda

1 c. sugar

1 egg, beaten

pinch of salt

1 tsp. baking powder

1-1/2 c. flour

1/2 c. nuts, chopped

Optional: Grated rind of small orange.

Put dates and soda (and orange rind) in large bowl. Add boiling water and let stand few minutes. Add sugar mixed with egg, and dry ingredients which have been sifted together. Add nuts, pour into loaf pan lined with wax paper. Bake in 350 degree oven for 1 hour.