DATE BARS                

24 bars

FILLING

Combine:

                        1 1/ 2 C. chopped pitted dates

                        2/ 3 C. water

                        3/ 4 C. sugar

                        2 Tbsp. lemon juice

                        1/ 2 C. nuts, chopped

Cook until thick - about 8 min. - Cool.

CRUST

Combine:

                        1 1/ 2 C. flour, sifted

                        1 C. brown sugar

                        1 1/ 4 C. quick oats

Cut in with pastry blender as for pie crust:

                        1/ 2 tsp. salt

                        3/ 4 C. shortening

Spread 1/ 2 crumbs in 7 x 12 pan.  Add filling, then cover with remaining crumbs.  Brush top with 1 egg, well beaten. 

Bake at 350 for 20 to 25 minutes.  Cool.