4 c. flour, sifted
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 c. shortening or lard
1 1/4 c. molasses
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg

Sift together flour, salt, soda and spices. Melt shortening in saucepan large enough for mixing cookies. Stir in molasses and sugar. Cool mixture. Beat in egg. Gradually add flour mixture. (I like to put in refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours and then roll into balls about the size of walnuts and dip in water and sugar.) Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes on greased cookie sheet. Store in covered stone jar.