1542 EDT [Dow Jones] - Cotton futures tracked back toward the $1 a pound
level on reports of strong U.S. export sales and increased Chinese demand.
Analysts said a national holiday is not stopping China's buyers from placing
orders and continuing to purchase cotton. In addition, Friday's USDA production
report is expected to show strong sales of U.S. crops. Futures have fluctuated
since hitting 15-year highs in late September, but analysts expect the
government report to provide the market with a clear direction. ICE December
futures settled 1.19 cents, or 1.2%, higher at 99.75 cents a pound.