GR8:

I learned he was still alive. I learned he goes UNDER the pasture fence in lieu of OVER it (something I would never guess for a deer his size). I learned he uses that corridor.

If I'd killed him....would I have learned more or less....or neither? I may have learned I could actually take an animal of that age/size (get drawn.....keep the nerves in check enough to make the shot...etc...).

I'm not arguing with your assumption. I learned, either way. Granted. Less? More? Don't know.....