Divine Divinity

Combine sugar, syrup, water and salt in a 3-quart saucepan. Cover pan and bring to a boil. Remove cover and cook, stirring occasionally, to hard ball stage (260 °F / 125 °C), or until a small amount of mixture is dropped into cold water and forms a ball that holds its shape but is pliable. Meanwhile, beat egg whites in large mixing bowl until stiff. Gradually pour in hot syrup in small stream while continuing to beat. Add vanilla and continue beating until mixture will hold its shape when dropped from spoon. Add nuts or candied cherries. Drop by spoonfuls onto waxed paper.