Sift the first five ingredients together. Add the nuts. Make a well in the centre and add milk, vanilla and melted shortening. Stir lightly and pour batter into a greased casserole. Sauce: Measure cocoa, brown sugar, hot water and orange rind into a bowl and beat well. Pour over batter. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes at 350F. As this dessert bakes, the batter rises through the rich chocolate sauce. Serve it hot with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.