About a mile lower is the island of Pfaltz, or Pfalzgrafenstein, a
place of such antient importance in the history of the Palatinate,
that it has given its name to the whole territory in Germany called
Pfaltz. It was probably the first residence of the Counts, the
peaceable possession of which was one means of attesting the right to
the Palatinate; for, as a sign of such possession, it was antiently
necessary, that the heir apparent should be born in a castle, which
still subsists in a repaired state upon it. This melancholy fortress
is now provided with a garrison of invalids, who are chiefly employed
in guarding state prisoners, and in giving notice to the neighbouring
toll-house of Kaub, of the approach of vessels on the Rhine. Being much
smaller than is suitable to the value placed upon it, it is secured
from surprise by having no entrance, except by a ladder, which is drawn
up at night.