Two rival kings attempt to settle their differences by betrothing their infant children to one another. Twenty years on, and the time has come for Idas and Hilarions official engagement. Ida has given backword, however, and set up an academic community of women in Castle Adamant, which has sworn to renounce all men. The opera follows Hilarions plan to get her back, despite the attentions of Idas three belligerent brothers and the tendency of his companions to give away their disguises. We meet Ida, the Mighty Maiden with a Mission and share the brothers delight for the Rum-tum-tum of the Military Drum before finding out whether in the end nothing is Above the Sway of Love. Sullivans music is enhanced with the accompaniment of a 15-piece orchestra.