Alex Burgess is a fictional character from Neil Gaiman's comic book series, The Sandman. He is the son of Roderick Burgess, mother unknown (but probably Ethel Cripps, and therefore half-brother of Doctor Destiny). He is taught by his father, and takes part in his rituals. On Roderick Burgess' death, Alex inherits his estate, including his magical order. He keeps Morpheus imprisoned, like his father trying to bargain for power and immortality in exchange for his releases. The order enjoys a resurgence in popularity in the 1960s, but by the 1970s it declines again. Alex passes the order to his boyfriend, Paul McGuire (formerly a gardener at the estate), and becomes obsessed with his prisoner and with his father. Finally, in 1988, Morpheus' guards fall asleep, and Morpheus escapes. He puts Al