Can you describe the sequence of events that led Laxmichand to recognize Sai Baba before ever meeting him in person?

Certainly. Chapter 28 details a fascinating sequence of events that prepared Laxmichand for his journey to Shirdi. First, while living in Santa Cruz, he had an unexpected dream where he saw a wonderful vision of an old, bearded sadhu surrounded by devotees, to whom he bowed. Sometime after, he attended a kirtan by Dasganu. As was Dasganu's practice, a picture of Sai Baba was displayed during the performance. Upon seeing this picture, Laxmichand was astonished, as he immediately recognized the figure's beard, age, and features as being identical to the great soul from his dream. This powerful confirmation left him deeply absorbed and convinced of the saint's identity.