Pudding Cake

1 cup flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp. shortening or margarine
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup nuts (optional)

Cream the shortening and dry ingredients.  Add milk and vanilla.  Mix well and pour into greased pan.  Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa; sprinkle over cake.  Pour 1 1/2 cups boiling water on top.  Bake in a 350* oven for 45 minutes.  The pudding may be topped with whipped topping or ice cream.