1 c. shortening
1 c. boiling water
1 1/2 c. flour
1 heaping tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt

Mix all ingredients well. Pour into 9x12 inch ungreased pan.

TOPPING:

1 c. brown sugar
1 lg. pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Mix together. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.