Chop nuts in blender ½ C. at a time. Remove and put in dates, soda and boiling water. Blend until smooth. Put egg, sugar and butter in mixing bowl and cream for 2 minutes, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Add dates, nuts, salt, flour and vanilla; mix thoroughly. Pour into greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Yield; 1 large loaf.