I've picked up the habit of counting the bells. Three rings means the watch is passing, and the gap between is when a person can breathe.

• Sister YuditThe bell isn't rung for counting. Go finish clearing the snow outside the gatehouse.
  MikhailIt's done. All of it, before the bell rang four times.
• Brother BrunoSister Judit, that man hasn't set his shovel down in three days.