Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9x13 inch pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the molasses. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt; stir into the molasses mixture alternately with the water. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven. Cake is done when it springs back to the touch.