The operetta centers around Vita, a commoner, and Prince Stephan, an attaché of the German Embassy. The Prince and Vita plan an elopement. This is thwarted by the Austrian master of intrigue, Prince Metternich, who fears that Stephan will lose his royal rights. After much heartbreak, Metternich realizes that love must have its way and gets a decree enobling Vita, allowing her and Stephan to wed.