We're getting the work done, 'slowly but surely'.
Things are 'slowly' getting better.
working/talking/moving 'slowly'
(..) Ah yes, most intriguing object. The sand runs in accordance with the quality of the conversation. It is stimulating, the sand runs slowly. - If it is not... - I think I'll be going, then. Nonsense. You have nothing to fear, dear boy. (..)2009 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince