Christmas Cherry Fudge

1 small box cherry gelatin
3 1/2 C. sugar
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 C. milk
1/4 C. butter
1/2 C. chopped candied cherries
1/2 C. chopped walnuts

Cook gelatin, sugar, baking soda and milk slowly until sugar is dissolved. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan.

Cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 236 F. Remove from heat. Add butter. Pour onto a large platter.

Cool, without stirring, until lukewarm. Beat until it loses its gloss. Stir in cherries and walnuts.

Pour into a buttered 8-inch square pan.