In matters of controversy or dispute, Washington upheld a perfectly impartial attitude.

But he did not believe that this should shackle his freedom in appointing.

According to him a man must profess right views in order to be considered worthy of appointment.

The result of this was that Washington's appointees must be orthodox in his definition of orthodoxy.
His first important act in his new administration was to issue a Proclamation of Neutrality on April 22d.

Although this document was clear in intent and in purpose, and was evidently framed to keep the United States from being involved in the war between France and England, it gave offence to partisans of either country.