Nell flew between him and the door, and in his struggle to get out,

she grasped at the dagger, but failed in securing it
Nell flew between him and the door, and in his struggle to get out,
she grasped at the dagger, but failed in securing it. Rody advanced to
separate them, as did Nanse, but the fellow by a strong effort attempted
to free himself. The three were now upon him, and would have easily
succeeded in preventing his escape had it not occurred to him that by
one blow he might secure the whole sum. This was instantly directed at
Rody, by a back thrust, for he stood behind him. By the rapid change of
their positions, however, the breast of Nell M"Collum received the stab
that was designed for another.