1 c. shortening
4 eggs, separated
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 pkg. German sweet chocolate, 1/4 lb.
2 c. sugar
1 c. buttermilk
2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. hot water

Cream shortening, slowly add sugar. Add egg yolks, one at a time. Sift flour. Mix soda in buttermilk. Melt chocolate in 1/2 cup of hot water, mix. Last fold in beaten egg whites. Makes 2-3 cake layers, greased and floured, 350 degrees.

ICING:

1 c. plus 2 tbsp. Pet milk
1 stick plus 2 tbsp. butter
1 c. plus 2 tbsp. sugar
3 or 4 whole eggs
1 c. chopped pecans
1 c. coconut (optional)

Combine and cook over low heat until thick. Add nuts last.