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

Cæsar's men daily carried on their works to straiten the enemy; those of Pompey, having the advantage of numbers, did the same to enlarge themselves, and severely galled the enemy by their slingers and archers.

From Pinnock's improved edition of Dr. Goldsmith's History of Rome to which is prefixed an introduction to the study of Roman history, and a great variety of valuable information added throughout the work, on the manners, institutions, and antiquities of the Romans; with numerous biographical and historical notes; and questions for examination at the end of each section. By Wm. C. Taylor. by William Pinnock

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

I want you to consider what per cent you can pay, and not straiten yourselves too much.

From Hope Mills or, Between Friend and Sweetheart by Amanda Minnie Douglas

No law must straiten The ways they wait in, Whose spirits greaten And hearts aspire.

From More Songs From Vagabondia by Bliss Carman