Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) - Components of the Provision for Income Taxes (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2015	Feb. 28, 2014	Feb. 28, 2015	Feb. 28, 2014
Current
U.S. Federal			$ 34,492	$ 38,630
U.S. state and local			2,601	2,573
Non-U.S.			5,186	6,008
Total current taxes			42,279	47,211
Deferred
U.S. Federal			3,561	(1,205)
U.S. state and local			163	(69)
Non-U.S.			(1,589)	(61)
Total deferred taxes			2,135	(1,335)
Total provision for income taxes	$ 19,584	$ 22,972	$ 44,414	$ 45,876