(slightly modified)
Preheat to 350. Chill a stick of butter in the freezer.
Sift together
2c sifted flour
3/4 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
1T sugar
Cut in
6 T chilled shortening
to consistency of coarse cornmeal. Hint: do this in a cuisinart!
Stir in
1/2-1c raisins or currants
1T caraway seeds
Add
2/3 c buttermilk (up to 3/4c)
Knead briefly, shape, cut in a cross, lay on cookie sheet. (NB: a shiny pan is better than a black one, which may cause burning on the bottom)
Brush top with a little milk.
Bake 40-50 minutes.