straiten

Las Torres therefore determined to seize these places, which were distant about fifteen miles from his camp, and so to straiten the town for provisions.

From The Bravest of the Brave — or, with Peterborough in Spain by G. A. (George Alfred) Henty

But really when I saw so much goodness, generosity, tenderness, and real honesty, I had not the heart to accept it, for fear he should straiten himself upon my account.

From The Life and Most Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner (1801) by Daniel Defoe

Does he not, at this instant, straiten and invade your confederates, whom you have solemnly sworn to protect?

From The Young Gentleman and Lady's Monitor, and English Teacher's Assistant by John Hamilton Moore

It is known that statutes made, not to open and enlarge, but on fair grounds to straiten proofs, require two witnesses in cases of high treason.

From The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 11 (of 12) by Edmund Burke

Hatsell, Baron—Mr. Cowper, I would not have you straiten yourself, but only ask those questions that are pertinent.

From State Trials Vol. 2 (of 2) Political and Social by Various