Hard Honey Cookies

Combine sugar and honey in a large mixing bowl, beating well. Add egg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt; beat well.

Dissolve soda in water; add to honey mixture, stirring well. Stir in flour and almonds.

Press dough evenly into a greased and floured 13- x 9- x 2- inch baking pan. Bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes. Cut into 3- x 1-inch bars. Remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Note: Cookies may be stored 3 to 4 weeks in a cake tin with an apple to mellow.