Your solution sounds interesting, Tom. However, I'm not fully understanding how to position the closed friction hitch on the side D so that the D accomplishes the slack tending task. I couldn't find reference immediately to the "advanced hitch", though I found the "scaffold hitch". Are the four- or six-coil prusik loops considered advanced hitches? Am I understanding correctly that the friction hitch is mounted on the side D by means of the scaffold hitch? If at all possible, would you be able to post a picture? In any case, your response is much appreciated. I'll explore the possibilities low and slow, stopper knot included. Thanks again!