straiten

Husb.—It is very kind in you, my dear, and I must always acknowledge it; but, however, I would not have you straiten yourself too much neither.

From The Complete English Tradesman (1839 ed.) by Daniel Defoe

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

I absolutely must reform, for I do not propose that my father shall straiten himself for me; and that is what will happen if I continue to lead the life I have been leading.

From San-Cravate; or, The Messengers; Little Streams by Charles Paul de Kock

The armaments they have equipped and are equipping, and the expensive preparations for the siege of Gibraltar, straiten them exceedingly for funds.

From The Diplomatic Correspondence of the American Revolution, Vol. IX by Jared Sparks

To the Editers of The Cawcashin: Surs:—Didn't I tell you that, as soon as I got here, I would straiten things out?

From Letters of Major Jack Downing, of the Downingville Militia by Seba Smith