Who were Sai Baba's first devotees in Shirdi, and how did they serve him and other holy men?

The introductory chapter identifies Mhalasapati, Kashiram Shimpi, and Appa Jagle as Sai Baba's earliest devotees in Shirdi. Mhalasapati introduced Baba to the other two, and all three became his followers. Chapter 0 mentions their established practice of serving and looking after saints, Gosavis, Bairagis, and Fakirs who visited the busy village, providing hospitality according to their capacity. Kashiram, in particular, served Maharaj excellently with his body, mind, and wealth, even providing specific items like a green kafni, chillum, tobacco, and firewood for the Dhuni.