Christmas Applesauce Cake

1 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 quart applesauce
4 cups flour
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. salt
6 tsp. soda
1 cup nuts, chopped
1 cup raisins, chopped
1 cup dates, chopped
1 pint mixed, candied fruit

Cream shortening and sugar together. Add beaten eggs. Dissolve soda in applesauce. Sift dry ingredients and add alternately with applesauce to creamed mixture. Add nuts, raisins, dates and mixed fruit. Bake in large tube pan lined with paper 1 1/2 hours in a slow oven (250 - 300 degrees).