Combine dates, sugar, and cold water. Simmer until dates are soft, and sirup is thick. Cream butter and brown sugar. Sift flour, measure, and sift with baking soda and salt. Add rolled oats. Combine with creamed sugar and butter. Add hot water. Mix thoroughly. Divide dough into 2 portions. Turn onto lightly floured board. Roll each portion into an oblong 1/8 inch thick. Spread date filling on one sheet. Cover with second sheet. Cut in oblongs 1 by 3 inches. Place on lightly floured baking sheet. Bake in hot oven (425 F) about 15 minutes. 30 servings. Myrtle Ensrud, Pekin, N.D.