Tell me the story of Kashiram and the thieves. How was Sai Baba involved?

The story of Kashiram is a powerful example of a devotee's trial and Maharaj's protection. Kashiram was attacked by thieves who wanted a bundle he was carrying, which they thought contained treasure but was actually just powdered sugar. He fought back fiercely but was struck by an axe and left for dead. Simultaneously, back in Shirdi, Maharaj became extremely agitated. As Chapter 0 explains, devotees understood this to mean a dear devotee was in great danger and that Maharaj's agitation was a form of protection. Indeed, Kashiram survived, refused hospital treatment, and insisted on being taken to Shirdi where he recovered by Maharaj's grace.