Who were Maharaj's earliest devotees in Shirdi, and what specific forms of service did they offer him?

As detailed in Chapter 0, after Mhalasapati welcomed Maharaj into the village, he introduced him to his companions, Kashiram Shimpi and Appa Jagle. These three men became Maharaj's first and most devoted followers. They had a practice of serving saints who came to the village. Specifically, Kashiram Shimpi served Maharaj with his body, mind, and wealth. He took a vow to provide chillum, tobacco, firewood for the Dhuni, and money. He even stitched a green kafni for Maharaj and would offer his entire money bag for Baba to take from as he wished.