Mother's Depression Cake Recipe

Simmer slowly the lard, sugar, water, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium sauce pan until raisins are plump, about 1/2 hour. Let cool. Preheat oven to 350. Dissolve baking soda in 1 cup of warm water. To the raisin mixture, add baking soda mixture and flour. Mix well and bake in a greased 13 x 9, or 9 x 9 baking pan for about 1/2 hour. Test with a toothpick. (The larger pan takes a little longer, about 45 minutes.) **If you have the optional ingredients, you may add one or more of them to make a richer cake.