In the Victorian era, Britain had many domestic workers. The butler was the most important one. At meal times he was like a head waiter. Other male domestic workers were often called "valets". A valet (sometimes said with a silent "t") may have been a personal servant who looked after his master’s clothes and comforts, and possibly looked after money matters as well. Female domestic worker were usually maids who cleaned, cooks who prepared the meals and nannies who looked after the children. Gardeners did the gardening.