What personal sacrifice did Cholkar make while waiting to visit Shirdi, and how did Baba acknowledge it?

When Cholkar found himself unable to immediately travel to Shirdi to fulfill his vow due to financial hardship, he undertook a personal sacrifice as a form of penance for the delay. Chapter 15 explains that "he gave up sugar" and would even drink his tea unsweetened. This was a secret act of devotion known only to him. Sai Baba acknowledged this private penance in a remarkable way upon Cholkar's arrival in Shirdi. After Cholkar had fulfilled his vow, Baba instructed another devotee to serve him "cups of tea, well-filled with sugar." This specific command revealed to Cholkar that Baba was fully aware of his secret sacrifice, thereby validating his faith and devotion completely.