Fresh Peach Cobbler

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon Baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
½ cup sugar
4 to 6 Tablespoons lard (you can use shortening)
½ to 2/3 cup milk
½ teaspoon almond extract
4 cups (2 pounds) sliced fresh peaches
¾ cup sugar
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt

1. Sift together flour, baking powder, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup sugar. 
2. Cut in lard until mixture has fine cornmeal texture. 
3. Add enough meat to make a soft dough. 
4. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 30 seconds until dough holds together well.
5. Roll dough into a 12 by 16 inch rectangle.  Cut a 1 inch strip off of each side, save this dough for the top.
6. Fit the rectangle of dough into a 12 by 8 inch baking pan. 
7. In a bowl, add almond extract to peaches and stir well. 
8. Mix ¾ cup sugar, cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon salt.  Add to peaches and toss to mix well.
9. Place peach mixture into lined pan.  Top with strips of dough made from remaining dough. 
10. Bake in hot oven at 450 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.