1 c. sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg
1 tsp. baking soda in 1/2 c. warm water
1/2 c. raisins
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 c. flour
1/2 c. dates, cut up (optional)

Cream together the sugar, shortening, molasses, and egg. Dissolve baking soda in warm water. Add to above mixture. Add salt, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and raisins. Gradually mix in the flour. Drop onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. Yield: About 2 1/2 dozen.