2 c. seedless raisins
1 c. water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. shortening
2 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. allspice
3 eggs, unbeaten
1 tsp. vanilla
4 c. sifted flour
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 c. chopped nuts

Boil raisins with water 5 minutes. Drain, measure 1/2 cup of the liquid (add water if needed to make 1/2 cup). Cool; stir in soda, cream shortening, gradually beat in sugar mixed with spices. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and raisins liquid. Sift flour and salt and baking powder. Stir in. Add raisins and nuts. Chill dough until stiff, drop by heaping teaspoon, about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 12 minutes. Cool.