Let x be the smaller number. Then the greater number is (90-x). The condition then says (90-x) - 3x = 14. Simplify and solve for x. 90 - x - 3x = 14 90 - 14 = x + 3x 76 = 4x =================> x = 76/4 = 19. ANSWER. The smaller number is 19; the larger number is 90-19 = 71. CHECK. 71 - 3*19 = 71 - 57 = 14. ! Correct !