Preheat oven to 450F.

In a small skillet or saucepan melt butter over moderate heat and cook scallion, seasoned with salt, until softened but not browned.

In a bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Blend in shortening with pastry blender or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse meal and stir in milk to form a soft dough. In a bowl knead dough gently with lightly floured hands 8 times.

On an ungreased small baking sheet pat dough into a 4-inch square and cut into quarters. Separate quarters on baking sheet and brush each with some scallion butter. Bake biscuits 15 minutes, or until tops are golden, and serve warm.

Makes 4 biscuits.