1 lb. seeded raisins
2 c. water
1 c. lard or Crisco
1 c. cold water
2 c. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tbsp. baking soda
4 c. flour or enough to make stiff batter
1/2 c. walnuts (if desired)

Stew the raisins in the water for 15 minutes, then add the remaining ingredients, except walnuts. Add the walnuts.

Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.