Dissolve yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar, then set aside.
Heat milk, shortening, 3 tablespoons sugar and salt. Cool to luke warm and combine with dissolved yeast. Add egg and then flour. Mix well.
Turn on to a floured board, cover and let stand for 10 minutes. Knead until smooth, then form into balls and place in well-greased pans. Let rise for 60 minutes.
Bake at 400° F until done, about 20 minutes.
Servings: about 1 1/2 dozen