What was the reaction of the grocers who denied Sai Baba oil for his lamps?

The grocers' reaction evolved from arrogance to awe and finally to repentance. As detailed in Chapter 5, they first conspired together with a "wicked idea" to stop the "nuisance" of giving free oil. After refusing Baba, they watched to see what he would do. When they witnessed the lamps burning with water, they were so amazed they "put their fingers in their mouths." This amazement turned to fear and regret. The text states they began to tremble, realizing they had sinned by lying and giving Baba needless trouble. They became filled with repentance for their actions and for being unworthy of Sai's grace.