Sift flour, measure & return to sifter. Add soda, salt & spices as each is measured. Cream shortening, blend in sugar gradually, creaming it as it is added. Add egg & beat mixture until light & fluffy. Blend in molasses. Add dry ingredients gradually, stir them in as added. Working with small amounts of dough at a time, roll out, cut in desired shapes. Place on cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 oven, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove to cookie rack to cool. ----