Why did Damu Anna decide to visit Shirdi in person even after his business plan was rejected via letter?

Although Damu Anna was initially very crestfallen by Sai Baba's rejection, he decided to travel to Shirdi for a personal visit because of a specific suggestion included in the reply letter. As Chapter 25 explains, the letter from Madhavrao hinted, "There is a difference between hearing and seeing; you should come here in person." Acting on this advice, Damu Anna thought it was the right course of action, holding onto a sliver of hope that there might be a benefit in a face-to-face meeting and that Baba might reconsider and give him permission after all.