1/4 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg
2 c. flour
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. baking soda

Cream shortening, sugar and molasses. Add the egg and vanilla and mix well. Stir together remaining ingredients and add to creamed mixture (will be somewhat thin). Chill for 1/2 hour to thicken it. Drop walnut sized balls on cookie sheet and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Makes 2 1/2 dozen.

FROSTING:

3 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. cream
Salt, vanilla & confectioners' sugar to taste