Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost of Defined Benefit Plans and Post-Retirement Benefit Plans (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011	Jul. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 12	$ 12	$ 36	$ 35
Interest	124	142	372	427
Expected return on plan assets	(122)	(93)	(365)	(280)
Amortization of actuarial losses	24	29	73	86
Net expense	38	90	116	268
Post-Retirement Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost	3	3	9	10
Interest	62	64	185	192
Net expense	$ 65	$ 67	$ 194	$ 202