Dissolve carob powder in some of the water. Mix dry ingredients. Mix chopped dates into dry ingredients. Add dissolved carob and remaining water until dough is formed. Knead dough thoroughly (300 times) on floured board. Shape into loaf/loaves. Slit tops. Cover tops with water or oil. Place damp towel overtop. Let stand over night. Bake at 350 degrees (F) for 1 3/4 hours. (One large loaf or two small ones) (The recipe is from The Tassajara Breadbook, a tribute to bread and baking.)