After his initial disappointment, what prompted Damu Anna to visit Shirdi in person, and what did he do upon arrival?

Although Damu Anna was initially crushed by Baba's reply, the letter itself contained a hint for his next step. According to Chapter 25, Madhavrao had suggested in the letter that "There is a difference between hearing and seeing; you should come here in person." Taking this advice to heart, Damu Anna decided a personal visit was the right thing to do, harboring a small hope that Baba might change his mind and grant permission for the trade. Upon arriving in Shirdi, he approached Baba, prostrated himself, and began to slowly massage Baba's feet, though he found he did not have the courage to bring up his business request again.