Why dont you try *Xubuntu* instead .... its great for low end computers...

I'm not sure this problem is limited to emachines or not. I had two
different laptops, Toshiba and a Dell, that both did the same thing,
although you've gotten further then I did until I added a memory
stick or two and got the memory up to 512M on the Dell. It had 258M
which "theoretically" was enough, but it just wasn't going to
install. If you've got 258M, you might want to consider another 258M.
If you've got 512M already, I'll be out of ideas. Unless the memory
is failing, which I doubt, but it's easy to test from the live CD. I
had a problem with the display and screen as well, but I got past the
install part.

Had the same prob until I sai that it required that no caps in name or
password.. Then it installed smooth. Hope this helps.

Just install the meta-package. I use xfce alot of the time, and when i
want the advanced features i switch to gnome.