In bowl, add water and 2 teaspoons sugar; stir until dissolved. Sprinkle in yeast; let stand for 10 minutes, then stir well. Scald milk; remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups sugar, salt and shortening. Cool to lukewarm, then add yeast mixture. Stir in eggs and 3 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Stir in fruit and work in 3 more cups of flour. Knead dough until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl; cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled. Bake in oven at 375°F-400°F for 45 minutes.