1 c. shortening
1 c. granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 c. molasses
4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. baking soda, dissolved in 1 c. hot water

(This is a soft dough.)

Cream shortening and sugar together, add eggs, and dissolve soda in hot water. Add remaining ingredients, except flour, which is added last.

Drop by teaspoonful onto greased cookie tin and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 10 minutes. Ice with confectioner's sugar frosting.

This recipe was handed down from my grandmother - a favorite with all the family.