1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. white sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. cocoa
2 tsp. baking soda in 1 c. hot water

Sift dry ingredients together, except 2 teaspoons baking soda. Set aside. Cream shortening and sugar, add eggs, vanilla and buttermilk. Add dry ingredients. Last, add 1 cup hot water with 2 teaspoons baking soda. Batter will be thin. Bake in 9 x 13 inch pan or 2 layer pans, greased. Bake at 350 degrees 30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.