1/2 c. shortening
1 1/4 c. granulated sugar
2 oz. melted unsweetened chocolate
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. milk
2 c. sifted flour
1 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 3/4 c. boiling water

Cream shortening and sugar; add melted chocolate. Mix well. Add well beaten eggs. Mix vanilla with milk, add alternately with dry ingredients. Add boiling water and soda to batter quickly and mix. Pour into two well greased 9" pans or 1 (9"x13") pan. Bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes.