Why did the dragoon say sorry in twist of gold?

In "Twist of Gold" by David Long, the dragoon apologizes to the main characters, Liam and his sister, for the harshness of his duties and the difficult circumstances they face. His apology reflects a moment of empathy, acknowledging the struggles of the Irish people during that time. This moment highlights the complexities of human relationships amidst conflict and the impact of societal roles on personal interactions.