Chatsworth, Ga., July 28 (Special). Sheriff Ben Keith died this morning at 5 o'clock from the wound received Tuesday in the encounter with the Fannin county desperado, John Harper.

The feeling against Harper is very bitter, but it is now believed that lynching has been averted.

Judge A. W. Fite, of Cartersville, fearing a mob, ordered the sheriff of Whitfield county to come here this afternoon and carry Harper to the Fulton county jail. Excitement was at a fever heat when it was learned that Harper was to be carried out of the county, and Deputy Sheriff Will Banks (sic) of this county, and Colonel Luke Henry, a well-known local attorney, called up Judge Fite at Cartersville, and explained the situation to him.

Colonel Henry and other prominent citizens assured the judge that in their opinion no violence would be attempted if Harper was allowed to remain here. He then rescinded his order and allowed the prisoner to remain here with the understanding that a heavy guard was to be placed at the jail. Colonel Henry addressed the large crowd assembled, and on the assurance that the prisoner would be kept here they dispersed and serious trouble was averted.

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