What prompted Damu Anna to visit Shirdi in person after being so disappointed by Sai Baba's written reply?

Although Damu Anna was initially devastated by Sai Baba's discouraging reply, he decided to travel to Shirdi for a personal visit. As explained in Chapter 25, this decision was prompted by a hint included in the letter he received from Madhavrao (Shama). Shama had suggested a personal visit, writing, "There is a difference between hearing and seeing; you should come here in person." Clinging to a sliver of hope, Damu Anna thought that there might still be some benefit in going and that perhaps Baba would change his mind and give him permission face-to-face.