Religion: Mystery of the Vanished Ruler

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In answer to the charges against Scientology, Heber Jentzsch, 37, who was elevated to the titular presidency of the church by the new leaders, denies any wrongdoing by the organization. Jentzsch insists that Hubbard is neither dead nor demented. He also says that Hubbard has gone back to his first vocation, writing, and "he deserves a little privacy at 71."

Meanwhile, in the desert near Palm Springs, Calif., at the edge of the San Jacinto Mountains, where Hubbard once stalked the sands wearing a cowboy hat, cursing and yelling as he directed Scientology films, security is tight. Guards at the Gilman retreat scrutinize cars moving along a highway past a black iron gate, and security men range amid the cactus, chattering into walkie-talkies. There is a sign that says GOLDEN ERA STUDIOS. The only visible reminder of the former presence is a bronze plaque on a replica of a ship's deck. It is dedicated to "L. Ron Hubbard, master mariner."