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

Mix shortening, sugar, egg, and molasses thoroughly. Blend all dry ingredients; stir in. Chill. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mold dough into balls the size of large walnuts. Dip tops in sugar. Place sugar side up, 3 inches apart on greased sheet. Sprinkle each 2-3 drops water. Bake 10-12 minutes. DO NOT OVER BAKE. Makes 8 dozen.