My daughter was ten when she made the observation that I seemed to prefer imaginary men. Not all the time! But who among us has not fantasized on occasion about an empty armchair, a silent television set, and a nice quiet cocktail alone.

1 ounce gin

1 ounce sweet vermouth

½ ounce Bénédictine

½ ounce pastis

Dash of bitters

Ice cubes

Lemon twist for garnish

Shake the liquid ingredients vigorously with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.