7 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
3/4 cup hot water
1/4 cup rum or rum flavoring
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups molasses or sorghum
1 cup lard or shortening
2 cups brown sugar or granulated sugar

Sift together flour, salt and spices. Set aside for a while.

Add baking soda to the sorghum or molasses.

Cream shortening and sugar in a large crock or bowl. Add water, molasses and rum and cream thoroughly. Add dry ingredients. Stir until mixed well. Roll with a little flour as can be handled or put in refrigerator overnight.

Roll 1/4 inch thick and cut with a 4-inch or larger cookie cutter. Bake on greased cookie sheet for 10 to 12 minutes at 375 degrees F. Will keep for months and improve with age.