How does Chapter 21 describe the ideal way to receive the stories of Sai Baba, and what was the author's own failing in Bandra?

The beginning of Chapter 21 sets a specific tone for receiving the stories that follow. It posits that a speaker's words are only truly effective if the listener is receptive and emotionally moved, to the point where "the hair on the body does not stand on end" or "tears of love and joy do not flow." This introduction contrasts sharply with the author's own past behavior, which he then recounts. As described in Chapter 21, when he was a Magistrate in Bandra, his mind was filled with prideful thoughts, questioning why he should go see the Siddha Pir Maulana just because others did. This lack of humility and receptiveness, which he calls "ill-luck," prevented him from gaining the darshan of a great soul, proving the chapter's initial point about the necessity of an open heart.