Poor Man`s Cake

1 c Sugar 1/4 ts Cloves

2 c Raisins 1 x Pinch Of Salt

1 c Lard * 1 ts Cinnamon (Or To Taste)

1/4 ts Allspice

* The original recipe calls for Lard. I don`t know if shortening will ~-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Boil together all ingredients. Add water just enough water to cover raisins. Boil until raisins are tender. Cool. Add 1 t baking soda and enough Unbleached flour to make a stiff batter. Pour batter into 9-inch round cake pan. Bake in moderate oven until cake springs back when touched lightly (about 1 hour at 350 degrees F). Serve warm or cold with cream, custard sauce or powdered sugar frosting. Walnuts may be added to batter just before baking. -----