The fallen jug

Read this extract from a story set in the nineteenth century.

As Nell reached for the bread knife, her sleeve caught the milk jug. It fell onto its side, and a white stream began to cross the kitchen table towards the account book. Nell snatched up the book and placed it on the dresser. She then stood the jug upright and wiped the table with her apron.

Give one action Nell takes to keep the account book away from the spilled milk.