Date Nut Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Pour 1 1/2 cups boiling water over 1 cup dates.
2. 2
   When slightly cooled, add 1 teaspoon soda to mixture.
3. 3
   Cream shortening and sugar.
4. 4
   Add eggs.
5. 5
   Sift flour, salt and 3/4 teaspoon soda.
6. 6
   Add sifted flour mixture to shortening mixture.
7. 7
   Add date mixture; mix until blended.
8. 8
   Pour into 9 x 13-inch pan.
9. 9
   Generously sprinkle top of cake mixture with sugar covering well, then sprinkle with nuts and chocolate chips.
10. 10
    Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.