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 the public than to private affairs, that honestly 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' polices