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

Simmer raisins in water 5 minutes and drain (save 1/2 cup liquid). Blend lard, spices, and vanilla. Add sugar gradually, cream thoroughly. Add eggs, one at a time. Sift flour, salt and baking powder. Add soda to 1/2 cup liquid. Mix and chill. Drop by spoonful on cookie sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

LEMON FROSTING FOR COOKIES:

1 tbsp. melted butter
1 tbsp. cream
1 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice and rind of 1/2 lemon
1 1/4 c. powdered sugar

Mix together.