The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word SENS
S
E
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S
More clues leading to the result SENS
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "from that time long ago" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case from that time long ago = sens.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SENS mean?
SENS noun- A unit of Japanese currency, worth one hundredth of a yen.
- A coin of this value.