Mix in a saucepan:

1 c. brown sugar
1 1/4 c. water
1/2 c. lard
2 c. seeded raisins
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
2 tsp. cinnamon

Boil for 3 minutes; cool, then add 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda dissolved in water, 1 1/2 cups sifted flour mixed with 1 teaspoon baking powder.

Bake about 50 minutes in a slow oven.