7 c. sifted flour
1 c. shortening
1 tsp. salt
2 c. sugar
3/4 c. water
1/4 c. rum
2 c. molasses
1 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. ginger
2 tsp. baking soda

Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Dissolve salt in water and mix with rum. Add baking soda to molasses (let set). Sift flour with spices, add liquid ingredients alternately with flour mixture. Stir well between divisions, dough should be sticky. Chill overnight in refrigerator.

Next day flour board and rolling pin. Roll dough 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut with medium to large cookie cutters. Bake in 375 degree oven 10 to 12 minutes or until done.