Crossword Genius

Frenchman on flood defence in old capital (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mark

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'old capital' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'frenchman on flood defence' is the wordplay.
'frenchman' becomes 'm' (abbreviation for Monsieur - like 'Mr').
'on flood defence' becomes 'ark' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'm'+'ark'='MARK'

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mark that I've seen before include "Former German currency" , "Trace" , "symbol" , "religious work of a saint" , "Characteristic" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.
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