I remember a story, which I will try to paraphrase as I remember it. I knw I have seen it likely on TV, but I think it was in literature first.
ANyway, a guy for whatever reason is about to be hung. He is up on the gallows, they put the rope around his neck, and pull the lever. He drops, but the rope breaks, he falls to the ground and is able to escape and run away. They pursue, I seem to recall a chase through woods or swamp, likely dogs barking and the guy trying to run for his life. Seems to me he is about to make good on his escape when... a blinding flash of light, and we are back at the gallows, and the guys watching say "He lasted longer than they usually do up there."
I probably have most of the details wrong, but does this sound familiar and if so where is it from?