Frederick D'Aeth was a disillusioned minister who moved to Liverpool in 1905 to teach at Liverpool University. Though largely unheralded, he is revealed in From Rhetoric to Reality to be a central figure in the transition from Victorian notions of private philanthropy to the modern conception of the welfare state. Margaret Simey explores D'Aeth's pioneering work in the field of social administration as well as his indefatigable efforts to convince charitable groups in Liverpool to coordinate their disparate efforts. D'Aeth's story will provide insight for anyone studying urban history, the history of social administration, or the birth of the welfare state.