3/4 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. dark molasses
1 egg
2 tsp. baking soda
2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt

ICING:

Powdered sugar
1 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. molasses
Add enough milk to make spreading consistency

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake 8-10 minutes. Melt shortening; cool. Add sugar, molasses and egg; beat well. Sift flour, soda and spices. Add to first mixture; mix well. Chill. Form 1 inch balls (if you do not ice cookies, roll in granulated sugar). Place on greased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake in 375 degree oven for 8-10 minutes.