Sprinkle 1 tsp baking soda over 2 cups chopped dates. Pour 1 cup boiling water over mixture and let cool.

While cooling, cream 1/4 lb butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark). Beat in 1 egg. Stir in date mixture.

Add 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional).

Pour into lightly greased and floured pans. (I spray the aluminum ones-no flour-3 1-lb loaves)

Bake 50-60 minutes at 325º.