1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. molasses
4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 c. hot water
2 tsp. baking soda

Cream shortening and sugar. Add egg and molasses; beat well. Then add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Chill. Drop by spoonfuls and bake at 350 degrees until done. Top with powdered sugar frosting as they come out of the oven.