Put oatmeal, molasses, salt and shortening in a large bowl.
Pour boiling water over all, stir and let stand until warm.
Soften yeast in lukewarm water.
Cool milk to lukewarm and add 1 1/2 cups flour and beat.
Add remaining flour to make a stiff dough.
Turn out on floured board and let rise for 10 minutes.
Knead until elastic.
Place in greased bowl and shape into loaves. Place in greased loaf pans. Let rise until doubled.
Bake at 375 for 50 minutes.
Turn onto rack and brush tops with butter; cool.
