Definition of "delaying"

[…] a hearing, with a file of orders in the solicitor's bundle, as big as the common-prayer-book, for commissions, injunctions, publications, speedings, delayings, and other interlocutories; all dear ware to the client in every respect.

1826, Roger North, The Lives of the Right Hon. Francis North, Baron Guilford; the Hon. Sir Dudley North; and the Hon. and Rev. Dr. John North

However, there was no profit in cowardly delayings; booted and breeched, we sallied forth into a cold, ungenial morning such as you get in Switzerland […]

1909, Reginald Farrer, In a Yorkshire Garden