Why were the darveshis both sad and pleased when their tiger died at Sai's feet?

The darveshis experienced conflicting emotions for very distinct reasons, as explained in Chapter 31. They were sad-faced because the tiger was their primary means of livelihood and their family's sustenance; its death represented a significant financial loss for them (Verse 158). However, they were also pleased because they understood the spiritual significance of what had happened. They recognized that the diseased, near-death creature had attained liberation by dying in the presence of Sai Baba. Chapter 31 notes that they knew this was a great merit that saved the tiger from its sins and suffering, which brought them a sense of satisfaction despite their personal loss (Verse 142, 157).