Sift flour, measure and sift together with baking soda and salt. Cream shortening, add sugar and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy.
Add sour milk alternately with flour mixture. Add nuts, dates, and candied fruits. Chill dough several hours.
Drop by rounded teaspoonful and bake in moderate oven (350 degrees) for 8 to 10 minutes. Makes 8 dozen cookies.