Combine the raisins with sugar, water, shortening and spices and simmer for a m inute. Cool to room temperature.
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Lightly grease a 23 cm square baking pan. Comb ine cooled raisin mixture with flour and nuts. Transfer to baking pan and bake 1 hour or until a toothpick when inserted in the center comes out dry. Cool in pan and cut into squares.