GRANMA'S SALT PORK CAKE

1 lb. fat pork, NO lean
1 1/2 pts. boiling water
1 tbsp. baking soda dissolved in water
4 c. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
6 c. flour
1 tbsp. cloves
2 tbsp. cinnamon
2 lbs. raisins
1 c. nuts
1 lb. dates
Grind salt pork and stir into boiling water and soda for 5 minutes. Add sugar
and dates, stirring until cool. Add remaining ingredients. Bake at 325 degrees
for 75 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. This will make several
loaf pan cakes. This recipe has been in the family for years.