Sift flour once, measure & mix with soda, salt & baking powder; sift again. Cream shortening, add sugar gradually, beating thoroughly after each addition. Add vanilla, then well-beaten eggs; beat until fluffy. Beat in flour mixture alternately with sour milk. Mix cocoa & hot water to form a smooth paste; beat into batter. Pour into 3 small or 2 large cake pans. Bake in moderate oven (350 degrees) 30- 35 minutes. Cool. Spread with any chocolate icing.
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