2 c. sugar
3/4 c. shortening
2 eggs
3 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. cocoa
1 c. buttermilk

Cream sugar and shortening. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift flour, salt and cocoa. Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk. Beat until smooth.

Dissolve 2 teaspoons soda in 1 cup boiling water. Mix until well blended. Use 3 layer pans or 1 loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes for layers or 1 hour for loaf pan.