Cream sugar and shortening until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, milk and orange rind. Stir together baking powder, spices, salt and flour. Mix into sugar mixture. Stir in raisins and nuts, if used. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350F about 10 to 12 minutes, or until done. Remove from baking sheets and cool cookies on rack. Store in airtight tins. Makes about 4 to 5 dozen cookies.