I was under the belief that it was actually a bad translation on Woolsey's part. Generally, he gets the point across very clearly, but this one's always been a bone of contention for people.

Chrono Compendium's, admittedly dodgy, retranslation for the line is as follows:
Quote Originally Posted by Chrono Compendium
Old Man: I expect that there are those among
you, as well, who know about things where
their own eras are concerned.
You should try asking......