I think the English bookstore staff would have fund Ms. Hanff lacking.
Just a hunch.
They have manners so if they DID find her lacking, they'd never say it. Personally I think both sides would be thrilled with each other.
I think the Brits would have found their breezy, cheeky American friend absolutely charming. Just as she would have founds them. To me, one of the main themes of the movie was the pleasure of opposites attracting.
shareJudging from Frank Doel's (Hopkins') semi-doleful expression when realizing the comely woman from Delaware was not Helene Hanff, I'd think that Doel would be slightly letdown, at least briefly, until her personality re-enamored.
Objection, your Honor. You can't preface your second point with first of all.