[Well... like it or not, it is something that will remain on his mind for quite some time. Rather than attempt to say that it won't, or that it doesn't, he offers an explanation of sorts.]

I merely feel I have not properly expressed my apologies until now. It seemed an apt moment to do so.

[An unburdening, of sorts, however insignificant. But he doesn't want to make it just about him.]

We don't have to speak further on the matter, if you'd prefer.