Put raisins to soak in hot water overnight. Drain before using.
Preheat oven to 275 degrees F.
Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after
each addition. Add milk, and mix to blend.
Mix baking soda with 2 cups of the flour and mix thoroughly with fruit and nuts.
Add other cup of flour to fruit and nut mixture. Mix well. Add fruit and nut
mixture to first mixture (butter, sugar, eggs and milk). Add vanilla extract and
mix well. Drop by small spoonsful onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake for 20 to 25
minutes.