3 c. flour
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 c. boiling water
1 c. molasses
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ginger

Sift flour, measure and sift with salt and spices. Combine with sugar and shortening. Mix to a crummy consistency. Combine water, molasses and baking soda. Add crumbs, saving 1/2 cup for top of cake. Beat until smooth. Pour into well oiled pan. Sprinkle with remaining crumbs.

Bake in a moderate oven at 375°F for about 40 minutes.