From Dev's perspective, what was the reason he failed to recognize Sai Baba when he appeared as a Sanyasi?

After learning the truth and feeling deeply ashamed, Dev reflected on why he was so deluded. As explained in Chapter 40, Dev's failure to recognize Baba stemmed from the context and timing of the Sanyasi's visit. The Sanyasi had first appeared to collect funds for cow protection *before* Dev had even invited Baba to the Udyapan. Because this first meeting had a different purpose and predated the invitation, Dev did not connect the Sanyasi to Baba. He reasoned, "if the same person asked for a meal, would it be inferred that it was Baba?" He admitted his critical error was forgetting Baba's specific promise that "When I come for the meal, two others will come with me," which should have been his clue.