In Biedermeier Vienna, Oberleutnant Fischbacher has fallen in love with the steadfast chambermaid Franzi, who of course rejects him. When he hears that she is said to have heard someone else, he is disappointed and composes a hit song about the immorality of Viennese parlor maids. The little song becomes a hit, but the objects of ridicule are only moderately enthusiastic and go on strike for the upcoming Radetzkyball.