Preheat griddle or heavy frying pan on low heat. Sift dry ingredients. In separate bowl, beat egg until foamy; add milk and shortening. Make a well in the center of dry ingredients; add liquid ingredients all at once. Mix with an egg beater only until smooth. Grease griddle lightly for first cakes. Drop batter from tablespoon onto hot griddle and spread gently until 4 inches in diameter. Cook on one side and then turn over. Serve at once with butter and syrup.