Pour boiling water over chocolate; stir over low heat until smooth and thick; cool. Sift flour, soda, baking powder and salt together. Cream shortening with sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and beat thoroughly. Blend in chocolate and vanilla. Add sifted dry ingredients and milk alternately in small amounts, beating well after each addition. Pour into greased pans and bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Makes 3 (8 inch) layers. Randy Rigg The Pinnacle Club BBS 812-963-9139