Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two nine inch cake pans.  In a medium bowl sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt, set aside.  In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening on medium speed for 30 seconds.  Add the 1 cup sugar and vanilla and beat until fluffly.  Add the egg yolks, one at a time and beat well after each addition.  Add dry ingredients and water alternately, ending with the dry ingredients.  Mix until all dry ingredients are incorporated.  In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.  Slowly add the remaining 3/4 cup sugar, beat until stiff peaks form.  With a spatula, fold the egg whites into the cake batter.  Divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans.  Bake for 30 - 35 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.  Cool cakes for 10 minutes prior to removing from pans.  Cool completely, frost.