A band of pirates, bound by an unusual clause in their indentures, finds their criminal careers hampered by an overabundance of good manners and a lack of true villainy. The pirates, led by the Major General's former apprentice, are unable to commit acts of piracy because they were all born on February 29th, meaning they only have a birthday once every four years. This technicality prevents them from being hardened criminals, and they are easily charmed by the Major General's ten daughters, whom they intend to marry. The conflict arises when the Major General, eager to marry off his daughters, attempts to deceive the pirates about their age and their supposed orphan status, leading to a comedic confrontation of mistaken identities and operatic resolutions.

This prose adaptation of Gilbert and Sullivan's beloved comic opera is likely to be appreciated by fans of the original work and those who enjoy witty, lighthearted stories. The humor stems from the absurd premise of pirates bound by an unusual birthdate technicality and their inherent good nature, contrasting with the expected villainy. The narrative's charm lies in its clever wordplay and the farcical situations that arise from mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. It offers a accessible entry point into the story for readers unfamiliar with the operetta, preserving the spirit of the original's comedic genius.