An altercation would serve no useful purpose, and his antagonist was notoriously quick at repartee.
"A Prairie Courtship"
Harold Bindloss
The occupants of the buggy, speeding too on their way, were engaged in something of an altercation.
"The Luck of Gerard Ridgeley"
Bertram Mitford
To her great surprise he was much displeased, and it was only after a somewhat bitter altercation that he complied with her request, leading her to her place and taking leave of her with cold politeness.
"Henrietta Maria"
Henrietta Haynes