10.04, can't read error from Update Manager or re-invoke it

[rberger at rogers.com]

can't read error from Update Manager or re-invoke it

Just did a update(evince and two other files) using Update Manager. An
unreadable error flashed on screen while it was doing the installation
followed by an error icon appearing. Clicking the icon just flashes the
error again. Invoking the Update Manager or Synaptic flashes them to the
screen and terminates them. 

Suggestions? 

Rick Berger