2 1/2 c. sifted flour
1 1/2 tbsp. baking soda
1/2 tbsp. powdered cloves
1 tbsp. cinnamon
1 tbsp. ginger
1/2 tbsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg, well beaten
1 c. molasses
1 c. hot water

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 9x9x2 inch pan. Sift together first 6 ingredients. With back of spoon, work shortening against sides of mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, continuing to work until light and creamy. Add beaten egg and molasses. Add flour mixture and hot water, alternating in thirds, beating smooth with spoon after each addition. Turn into pan.

Bake in moderate oven of 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes or until done. Cool on wire cake rack 10-15 minutes before removing from pan. Serve with whipped cream.