1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 tbsp. shortening
1 c. raisin water
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. raisins, plump from being soaked in water
1 c. nuts (walnuts or pecans); optional