Four friends, A, B, C, and D, distribute some money among themselves in such a manner that:

1. A gets one less than B → If B receives $b$ units, then A gets $b - 1$ units.
2. C gets 5 more than D → Since D receives $b + 3$, C gets $b + 8$ units.
3. D gets 3 more than B → D receives $b + 3$ units.

Now, comparing the amounts each person receives:

• C: $b + 8$
• D: $b + 3$
• B: $b$
• A: $b - 1$

The order of amounts is: $b + 8 > b + 3 > b > b - 1$.

Therefore, A gets the smallest amount.

Correct answer: A