Toast the sliced bread, break into 2" pieces. Make a syrup of water, sugar, spices and salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. BUtter an oblong baking pan. Layer bread, cheese, raisins and butter. Pour syrup over bread mixture and bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until syrup is absorbed. May be served warm or cold. If served warm, top with whipped cream.