Wasn't it cruel for Baba to intentionally mislead Dev by coming in disguise? It caused Dev great distress, leading him to believe he was disappointed and that Baba's word had failed.

While Dev did experience initial disappointment, the events described in Chapter 40 were not intended to be cruel but were a profound leela. Baba was surprised that Dev did not recognize him, asking Jog, 'Why then did you call Me?' The purpose was to uphold his promise, as he stated, 'for the sake of My word, I would die.' The experience, though initially confusing for Dev, ultimately led to a powerful spiritual realization. Upon learning the truth from Jog, Dev's eyes 'overflowed with a surge of love,' and he felt deep remorse for blaming Sai, recognizing the 'pride of my knowledge' had blinded him.