2 c. sugar
2/3 c. shortening
2 eggs
2/3 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
2 c. flour
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. hot water

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs, alternate buttermilk and flour with salt. Mix cocoa and hot water to paste. Add to rest of ingredients. Bake in 9 x 13 inch pan or 2 layer pans in 350 degree oven for 40 to 50 minutes.

WHITE FROSTING:

2 c. white sugar
1/2 c. milk or Half and Half
1 tbsp. white syrup

Boil to soft ball stage. Take off stove. Do not stir. Add vanilla and 1 tablespoon butter. Cool. Beat until creamy.