Prospero interrogates Ariel about the success of the shipwreck before a tense confrontation regarding Ariel's freedom. Prospero uses psychological manipulation and the threat of further imprisonment to remind Ariel of their debt, ultimately promising liberty in exchange for two more days of service.
PROSPERO: Why, that’s my spirit! But was not this nigh shore?
ARIEL: Close by, my master.
PROSPERO: But are they, Ariel, safe?
ARIEL: Not a hair perished. On their sustaining garments not a blemish, But fresher than before; and, as thou bad’st me, In troops I have dispersed them ’bout the isle.
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