Single Egg Date Cake

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

Cut up dates and pour boiling water over them and set aside. Add soda and let cool. Cream shortening, sugar, and add egg. Mix well and add flour and salt and vanilla and the date mixture. Mix well and add nuts.

Bake at 350°F for 1 hour. Use 9 1/2 x 5 1/2 inch loaf pan.