  [abridged] We test the ``locally optimally-emitting clouds'' (LOC) model
against the extensive spectroscopic data base of the Seyfert~1, NGC 5548. The
time-averaged, integrated-light UV broad emission line spectrum from the 1993
{\em HST} monitoring campaign is reproduced via the optimization of three
global geometric parameters: the outer radius, the index controlling the radial
cloud covering fraction of the continuum source, and the integrated cloud
covering fraction. We make an {\em ad~hoc} selection from the range of
successful models, and for a simple spherical BLR geometry we simulate the
emission line light curves for the 1989 {\em IUE} and 1993 {\em HST} campaigns,
using the respective observed UV continuum light curves as drivers. We find
good agreement between the predicted and observed light curves and lags --- a
demonstration of the LOC picture's viability as a means to understanding the
BLR environment. Finally, we discuss the next step in developing the LOC
picture which involves the marriage of echo-mapping techniques with spectral
simulation grids such as those presented here, using the constraints provided
by a high quality, temporally well-sampled spectroscopic data set.
