Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2012	Aug. 31, 2012
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)	$ 1.00	$ 1.00
Common stock, shares authorized	29,000	29,000
Common stock, shares issued	14,333	14,342
Preferred stock, par value	$ 1.00	$ 1.00
Preferred stock, share authorized	1,000	1,000
Preferred stock, share issued	0	0
Treasury stock, shares	1,981	1,981