He seized one-a dagger-and sprang to his feet.

Before he could move forward or raise his arm, however, David struck him a blow in the neck which flung him upon a square marble pedestal intended for a statue.
In falling his head struck violently a sharp corner of the pedestal.

He lurched, rolled over on the floor, and lay still.
The girl gave a choking cry.

David quickly stooped and turned the body over.

There was a cut where the hair met the temple.