1 c. light brown sugar (firmly packed)
1/3 c. butter
1/3 c. shortening
1/2 qt. dark molasses
1 tbsp. (rounded) soda
1/4 c. boiling water
6-7 c. flour
1 tbsp. cloves
1 tbsp. ginger
1 tbsp. cinnamon

Mix shortening and butter until it bubbles and add to sugar. Stir in molasses. Dissolve soda in boiling water. Sift in flour and spices. The dough should be almost stiff enough to roll. Cover and let set overnight. Do not refrigerate.

On a floured, cloth covered board, roll dough as thin as possible. Cut with cookie cutters and place on a greased pan. Bake in a 275 degree oven for exactly 10 minutes. Let cool before removing from pan.