As a second in command of the house, except in large establishments, where there is a house steward, the housekeeper must consider herself as the immediate representative of her mistress, and bring to the Management of the Household, all the qualities of Honesty, Industry, and Vigilance, in the same degree as if she were at the head of her own family.
Constantly on the watch to detect any wrong-doing on the part of any of the domestics, she will overlook all that goes on in the house and will see that every department is thoroughly attended to and that the servants are comfortable, at the same time that their various duties are properly performed.
Cleanliness, punctuality, order, and method, are essentials in the character of a good housekeeper. Without these qualities, no household can be said to be well-managed.
The second is equally all-important; for those who are under the housekeeper will take their “cue” from her; and in the same proportion as punctuality governs her movements, so will it theirs. Order, again, is indispensable; for by it we wish to be understood that “there should be a place for everything, and everything in its place.”
Method, too, is most necessary; for when the work is properly contrived, and each part arranged in regular succession, it will be done more quickly and effectually.
From - Mrs. Beeton's Household Management Book written in 1860s.