--(quick or old-fashioned) Pour enough boiling water over raisins to cover them. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Beat shortening and sugar together until creamy. Add eggs; beat until fluffy. Drain raisins, reserving 1/2 cup liquid. Dissolve soda in this liquid. Sift together flour, salt and spices. Add to creamed mixture alternately with raisin liquid; blend well. Stir in raisins and oats. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto greased cooky sheets. Bake in preheated moderate oven (350 F.) 12 to 15 minutes.