2 c. all-purpose flour
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3 tbsp. butter, softened
1 c. buttermilk

Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until the combination "crumbs". Add buttermilk - stir with fork until moistened. Turn out and knead for 1 minute. Shape into ball. Cut X in top. Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Tap top - done if a hollow sound results. Remove to rack to cool. Paint top with melted butter. Dust with flour if you wish.

Yield: 1 loaf.

Variation: Add 1 cup raisins and 1 tablespoon caraway seeds to dry ingredients.