2 c. sugar
2/3 c. shortening
3 eggs
3/4 c. buttermilk
2 c. flour
3 heaping tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. baking soda
3 tbsp. vanilla
1 c. boiling water

Preheat oven to 325°F. Cream together sugar and shortening. Add eggs and buttermilk. Beat well. Sift together flour, cocoa, salt and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to egg mixture. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and boiling water.

Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes or more. Test with a toothpick.