3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon soda
3/4 cup shortening (1/2 of it butter)
2 cups moist brown sugar, packed
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 tablespoons cream
1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup dates, chopped

Sift flour, measure and resift 4 times with cream of tartar and soda. Cream shortening, blend in sugar, and add egg, vanilla, and cream; beat until smooth and fluffy. Add flour mixture and stir until flour disappears. Stir in nuts and dates.

Shape in a roll, or divide in 2 or 3 portions and roll separately; wrap in waxed paper and chill in refrigerator overnight. Slice thin with a very sharp knife, and transfer to baking sheet. Bake in a moderately hot oven (400 deg.) 7 minutes, or until nicely browned. Remove to cake racks to cool.

Makes about 5 dozen cookies, depending on size and thickness.