Hey Caveman! Where have you been hiding out? Glad to see it all worked out for you!
Pretty much been hiding here, and buying everything I can in the classifieds!

I pop in on Newcomer's threads and help out periodically, but try to keep my

limited to unanswered or incorrectly answered posts.
I'd leave it there for 24 hours, try it, and leave it for another 24 hours if it's still not working.
This
Rose, there is no perfect answer on "how long". While rice and silica packs are great for keeping moisture out, they are going to take a pretty long time to draw out the water inside the battery. (ever see rice in salt shakers?)
Honestly? I would put everything in a small ziplock, put the bag on a window sill or warm spot in the house to encourage the water to evaporate, and forget about it for a few days.
Short answer? Take your time.
As much as I would love to have the battery to play with, I would much rather see you get it working again!