These are crisscrossed by numerous narrow alleys called  wynds  and separated by open spaces where markets were held, royal decrees were heard, and criminals were hanged in front of large and enthusiastic crowds.
Royal decrees led to criminals being hung in front of large, enthusiastic crowds.
mnli hypothesis: Royal decrees led to criminals being hung in front of large, enthusiastic crowds. premise: These are crisscrossed by numerous narrow alleys called  wynds  and separated by open spaces where markets were held, royal decrees were heard, and criminals were hanged in front of large and enthusiastic crowds.