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

Cream shortening and sugar; beat in eggs and molasses. Blend in flour, soda, salt, spices and hot water. Drop by teaspoon on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 8 minutes. Makes 6 dozen.

FROSTING:

1/2 c. Crisco
2 c. powdered sugar
1 whole egg
1 tsp. vanilla

Beat well. If too thick add 1/4 cup milk and beat again.