He also condemned the use of the signal in these circumstances wholeheartedly.

The wrong thing then is for any freemason to use it in such circumstances?

When one feels distressed - is that not exactly the circumstances for them to use it?

And if it used by one freemason in such circumstance - does the signal have to be recognised and acted on?

I have a feeling that it is only judged wrong (by freemasons) TO BE SEEN to use this signal in such circumstances.

If you were a freemason 'distressed' in these circumstances (or as other may discribe it - guilty as charged) and you thought its use may avoid or limit the extent of your punishment - it would be a temptation - wouldn't it.

A temptation you could be seen to avoid, as an honourable person - by not becoming a freemason.