I heard Sai Baba gave money freely, but was this always the case? Did everyone who came to him receive money?

While Sai Baba was famous for his generous disposition and did distribute money, it was not a guaranteed occurrence for everyone. Chapter 29 clarifies that his manner was not fixed and his wisdom was incomprehensible. Sometimes he would give money, sometimes a sweet (bafri), and at other times he would send people back empty-handed. The text emphasizes that no one knew his mind and he did not give to all alike, even though many fakirs, beggars, and alms-seekers came to his door. Receiving a gift from his hand was considered a special blessing, a 'shell of fortune' obtained only by the fortunate whose auspicious time had arrived.