1 1/2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. cold water
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves
3/4 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. dates or raisins, chopped
2 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. pecans
1 tsp. allspice

Simmer first 8 ingredients for 3 minutes. Cool and add the flour, soda and nuts. Bake 45 minutes in a 325 degree oven in 8"x10" pan. Serve with the following sauce:

SAUCE:

2 c. brown sugar
2 rounded tbsp. flour
1/4 c. boiling water
1/2 stick butter

Mix sugar and flour, add to boiling water, add butter, cook for 5 minutes. Serve over cake.