4 c. sifted plain flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1-1/2 c. molasses
1/2 c. lard melted
1/4 c. butter melted
5 tbsp. boiling water

Sift flour, add soda, salt and spices together and sift. Combine molasses, melted shortening and boiling water. Add 2 cups flour, blend well. Add remaining 2 cups of flour gradually, beat well after each addition. Let stand in cool place about 1 hour. Turn on lightly floured board. Roll 1/4 inch thick, cut with large cookie cutter.

Bake in 425°F oven for 15 minutes.