Date And Orange Slice Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Combine dates, sugar and 2 tablespoons flour in saucepan.
2. 2
   Boil until thick.
3. 3
   Cool.
4. 4
   Cream shortening and brown sugar.
5. 5
   Beat in eggs, add soda in hot water.
6. 6
   Blend in vanilla.
7. 7
   Stir in 1 3/4 cups sifted flour.
8. 8
   Add salt to taste and nuts.
9. 9
   Spread 1/2 of mixture in bottom of greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
10. 10
    Cover with orange slices, cut lengthwise in thirds.
11. 11
    Spread date mixture over orange slices and top with remaining batter.
12. 12
    Bake, cool and cut in bars.