Deletion of "and"

Solution 1:

The word and is a coordinating conjunction. In this case, the comma was used to link the two coordinate clauses together which is unsual. A comma can be used between the two clauses of a compound sentence, if it precedes the conjunction. Compound sentences can also be linked without a coordinating conjunction by using a semicolon:

He was left with two options. One was to disappear as far away from Spanish territory as possible; the other was to receive a bullet through his neck on the spot.

The comma is acceptable as long as the coordinating conjunction is also present:

He was left with two options. One was to disappear as far away from Spanish territory as possible, and the other was to receive a bullet through his neck on the spot.

Note that this comma is optional and not required. The coordinating conjunction can be used without it. However, if the subject of the second sentence is elided, you cannot use the comma:

• He saw me and ran away.
• He saw me, and he ran away.

You can find more information along with many examples about linking compound sentences here.

You could also link the two clauses as a complex sentence using a subordinating conjunction such as while.