Mr. Sansone was integral to the company, several former Mattel executives said, because he established and enforced management controls.

"This is not brain surgery," one former Mattel executive said.

But they are divided on whether Mattel executives will be able to make their business mirror that of consumer products makers.

Another issue is the reappearance of a civil lawsuit filed in 1995 by a former Mattel executive, who contends she was wrongfully dismissed.

Several Mattel executives were let go following the discontinuation.

Today's Columns The Christmas toy season looks very soft, says a consultant who used to be a Mattel executive.

The Lilli doll was a representation of the same concept Ruth had been trying to sell to other Mattel executives.

Some analysts think the rumors, which have arisen from time to time for years, might have some merit now, but Mattel executives are not holding their breath.

A Mattel executive was at the other end of an open telephone line, matching Ms. McEnroe bid for bid in $5,000 jumps.

Mr. Mansour, the former Mattel executive, has no plans to return to corporate life.