Makes 6 dozen.

1 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
2 tbsp. molasses
1 c. raisins, if desired
1 lg. can fruit cocktail
Nuts, if desired
1 tbsp. vanilla
1 tsp. baking soda
3 tbsp. hot water
4 c. flour
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. salt (or less)

Cream shortening and sugar; add eggs and molasses, fold in fruit, raisins and vanilla. Dissolve baking soda in the water, add to mixture. Add sifted dry ingredients, drop by teaspoon onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees until lightly browned. Crushed pineapple may be used instead of fruit cocktail.