Faulknerian Family Spice Cake, with Caramel Icing

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups flour
• 1/2 pound butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups sugar
• 1 cup plus 2 TB milk
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 5 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon mace (don't leave this out)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup shortening (yes, shortening)