2 c. flour
1 1/4 c. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
4 c. sugar
8 eggs
1 c. shortening
2 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. butter
2 c. nuts (optional)

Sift flour, cocoa, and salt together. Cream sugar, shortening, and eggs. Blend well. Add sifted ingredients; add vanilla and nuts. Bake 35-40 minutes at 350 degrees.