It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world; so far, I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it; for let me not be understood as capable of patronizing [supporting] infidelity [disloyalty; unfaithfulness] to existing engagements. I hold the maxim [wise saying] no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy. I repeat, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be unwise to extend them.
- Washington’s Farewell Address
Use the excerpt to answer the question.
What did Washington mean when he wrote that the maxim “honesty is the best policy” should be applied to foreign relations?
A. The United States should have announced that it was cutting off relations with other nations.
B. The United States should have terminated its formal relationships with European nations.
C. There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.
D. The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations’ policies.