Possible Clues:

• Ticked over, investing old money in rising food store
• In a way did cover the French for time spent doing nothing
• I had taken the initiative and watched others working?
• I had conducted the carollers, perhaps, but became lazy
• Warmed an engine
• Turned over, but didn't get out of bed
• The setter's daughter showed the way, and ran slowly
• Didn't go anywhere
• Kept the AC running while waiting, say
• Loafed, lazed about