Response to Effect of HIGH dilutions HC-110 Tri-X?

It depends how high a dilution you're talking about, Howard.
If you dilute any developer to the point where the maximum density of the negative is affected, then it automatically becomes a compensating developer. That is to say; the film curve will show a distinct and early 'shoulder', where highlight density flattens off. The mid tones and shadows are relatively unaffected, so it's a useful technique for dealing with long tonal range subjects.
The look of the print is quite distinct from simply pulling a normal development, since the mid-tone separation is maintained and only the highlights are compressed.

Compensating developers are best used with 'stand' or semi-stand agitation, since this enhances the effect, by starving the highlights of fresh developer.
The method that you describe of Ansel Adams' is a good example of semi-stand agitation. Using a Jobo would defeat the object, I expect.
I don't use HC-110, so I can't tell you exactly how far you have to dilute it to turn it into a compensating developer. 'Quite a lot' would be my best guess.

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