After his initial plan was rejected via letter, what was Damu Anna's next course of action?

Although initially crestfallen, Damu Anna's next step was guided by a suggestion within the reply letter itself. Chapter 25 reveals that the letter hinted, "There is a difference between hearing and seeing; you should come here in person." Taking this suggestion, which he attributed to Madhavrao, Damu Anna decided it was right to go to Shirdi. He traveled there with the hope that he might still receive Baba's permission for his venture. Upon arriving, he prostrated himself before Baba and massaged his feet, but ultimately found he lacked the courage to ask about the business plan again.