That suggests that either this evil dates from a long time ago, ie. the evil person, thing whatever, is very old. OR Borlas is an extremely wise old man who recognises the evil that is inherent in the souls of all men. The evil that they have been tainted with for such a long time.
This is only speculation, as we will never know Tolkein's intent when writing this.
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The pain of war cannot exceed the woe of aftermath,
The drums will shake the castle wall, the ring wraiths ride in black, Ride on.
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