In the beginning of November 1796, in conjunction with the late Bishop of Durham, Mr. Wilberforce, and Mr. Elliot, he established the SOCIETY FOR BETTERING THE CONDITION OF THE POOR. As one of the primary objects of the original promoters of this society was the formation of an institution which might teach the application of science to the advancement of the arts of life, and to the increase of domestic comforts, a select committee was appointed from its body, in January 1799, for the purpose of conferring with Count Rumford on the means of carrying such a scheme into practical effect. This committee consisted of the Earl of Winchelsea, Mr. Wilberforce, Mr. Sullivan, the Bishop of Durham, Sir Thomas Bernard, and some other members of the society; and in a few weeks they completed the arrangements, circulated printed proposals, and collected the subscriptions, which gave birth to the ROYAL INSTITUTION OF GREAT BRITAIN, the future cradle of experimental science, and the destined scene of Davy's glory. In addition to the general objects of promoting the arts and manufactures, and of advancing the taste and science of the country, its more immediate purpose was the improvement of the means of industry and domestic comfort among the poor. That this benevolent design was constantly kept in sight may be shown by the several resolutions passed at the different meetings of the Managers, especially at that held in March 1800; when it was resolved to appoint _fourteen_ different committees, for the purpose of scientific investigation and improvement; amongst which were the following:-- "For the investigation into the processes of making bread, and into the methods of improving it. "For enquiring into the art of preparing cheap and nutritious soups for feeding the poor. "For improving the construction of cottages, and cottage fire-places, and for improving kitchen fire-places, and kitchen utensils. "For ascertaining, by experiment, the effects of the various processes of cookery upon the food of cattle. "For improving the construction of lime-kilns, and the composition of mortar and cements," &c. &c. So that the foundation and original arrangements of the Royal Institution were not only calculated to extend the boundaries of science, but to increase its applications, and to promote and improve those arts of life on which the subsistence of all, and the comfort and enjoyment of the great majority of mankind absolutely depend. At this early period of its history, the Royal Institution presented a scene of the most animated bustle and exhilarating activity. Persons most distinguished in the various departments of science and art were to be seen zealously and liberally co-operating for the promotion and diffusion of public happiness, under the cheering beams of popular favour and exalted patronage. It was like 'a busy ant-hill in a calm sunshine.'