Italian Chocolate Spiced Cookies

1 1/4 cups of shortening

2 cups sugar

4 eggs

5 cups sifted flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

4 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 3/4 cups cocoa

2 tablespoons orange rind

3/4 cups orange juice

1 cup of sour milk

2 drops of red food coloring

1 1/2 cups chopped nuts

1 cup of raisins cooked in 4 tablespoons of water




Frosting:

4 egg whites

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 pound confectioner's sugar