What is the English translation of the last line of The Murders in the Rue Morgue?..."de nier ce qui est, et d'expliquer ce qui n'est pas"

-- Anonymous, November 01, 2002

Answers

I believe it is "to deny that which is and to explain it as that which it is not" or in other words: to make up another explanation for reality. In context he is giving back handed satirical praise to the fatheaded Inspector for his ability to explain away an inconvenient fact and make up a satisfying police answer.

My French is rusty but up to the occasion, je crois.

-- Anonymous, November 01, 2002