1 lb. raisins
3 tbsp. shortening
3 c. hot water
2 c. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
3 1/2 c. flour
1 c. chopped nuts
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. warm water

Combine first 7 ingredients together and simmer for 10 minutes. Allow mixture to cool. When cool stir in flour and nuts. In a bowl mix together soda, salt and water, and stir into cake batter. Bake in preheated oven at 375 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Does not need frosting.