Soak cut apricots in boiling water. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs one at a time, beating well. Drain apricots (save liquid), and add to creamed mixture. Add sifted flour. Add soda to ½ cup apricot liquid and stir into mixture. Pour into greased and lined 20cm (8”) tin. Bake in a moderate oven (180ºC/350ºF) for 45-50 minutes.