2 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
1/2 c. buttermilk or sour milk
1 c. hot water
1/2 c. shortening
2 eggs
3/4 c. cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
Dash of salt

Cream sugar and shortening, add eggs and vanilla, cream with sugar mix, sift flour and cocoa together. Add to creamed mix alternately with buttermilk, add salt and 1 cup hot water. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes.