Soak dates for 2 hours in water, then drain and dry on paper toweling. In a bowl, mix egg, sugar, and butter. Sift flour with baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients alternately with orange juice and water, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Stir in dates and pecans and beat until well blended. Pour mixture into a greased 9x5x3" loaf pan. Bake in a preheated 350'F. oven for about 2 hours, or until bread tests done in the center. Unmold and cool on a rack. This keeps well and is excellent for a morning coffee party.