Components of Comprehensive Income (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
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Net income	$ 12,577	$ 27,875	$ 34,919	$ 50,456
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized (losses) gains on auction rate securities	(1,290)	(355)	1,034	(23)
Reclass adjustment for credit losses recognized in earnings			313
Unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swap agreement	(7)	(309)	4	287
Foreign currency translation	(155)	(41)	(86)	545
Actuarial gains-adjustments to pension and other post-retirement plans	24	16	73	49
Income tax benefit (expense) related to other comprehensive income	522	265	(583)	(127)
Comprehensive income	$ 11,671	$ 27,451	$ 35,674	$ 51,187