The Hangman and Robinson Crusoe

Old Fishmarket Close (Edinburgh) was said to have reeked beyond compare, during it's time as a fish and poultry market.
It was also home to the last "City Hangman" John High (died 1817) who was known as the "Doomster".
Daniel Defoe also was thought to have worked in offices in the close, although it is believed he was employed as a "Secret Agent" for the English Government, at the time.