What topics does the introduction of Chapter 8 recap from the previous chapter, and what does it promise to discuss?

The beginning of Chapter 8 serves as both a summary and a preview. It recaps several key points from the previous chapter, reminding the reader how Sai Baba first appeared as a lad, was known as a "mad fakir," and how Shirdi was fortunate to become his home. This recap, as stated in Chapter 8, also includes how he transformed a barren wasteland into a garden, the eventual construction of a mansion (wada) on that spot, and his intense practices of Dhauti, Poti, and Khanda-yoga. The chapter then introduces the topics it will cover, including the greatness of human birth, Baba's practice of begging for alms (bhiksha), Baijabai’s devoted service, and the wonder of Baba's meals.