I joked with him a spell ago about a wealthy relation of the Moriarty tribe turnin' up.

'Twas only a joke, of course.
And yet, Caroline, I--I think I'd ought to say--" He hesitated.

What could he say?
Even a hint might lead to embarrassing questions and he had promised Dunn.
"What ought you to say ?" asked his niece.
"Why, nothin', I guess.

I'm glad you understand matters a little better and I don't intend for the estate nor you to pay these Moriarty bills.
Just get 'em off your mind.

Forget 'em.