But as the minutes tick by, it becomes obvious that the car won't make it back onto the track.

The minutes tick by and still no horse.

But as the minutes tick by and you don't move, you start to question the priorities of those who are responsible for clearing away the obstruction.

You are standing on the platform watching in ignorance as the minutes tick by, with little idea of when, or if, your train will ever arrive.

Back in town precious minutes tick by as everyone waits anxiously for the vault mechanism to open.