2 c. brown sugar
2 c. water
2 c. raisins
2/3 c. shortening
2 c. dates
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 c. figs (optional)
1 tsp. salt

Boil together for 5 minutes. COOL. Add 2 teaspoons soda, dissolved in warm water. Add 4 cups flour, sifted with teaspoon baking powder. Add 1 cup nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 2 hours.