Describe Ratanji's first encounter with Sai Baba in Shirdi and Baba's initial response to him.

Following Das Ganu's counsel, Ratanji traveled to Shirdi and went to the Masjid for Sai Baba's darshan. As detailed in Chapter 14, the moment Ratanji saw Baba, a 'heap of merit,' love surged within his heart. He respectfully opened a basket of flowers, placed a garland around Baba's neck, and offered fruits at His feet. Becoming very humble, Ratanji sat near Baba and prayed, stating he had come with great eagerness after hearing of Baba's power to protect those in calamity. After listening, Baba's first action was to ask him for an offering, saying, 'You have come today; what Dakshina will you give Me? Then you will be fulfilled.' This was a common practice for Baba with all who came for His darshan.