Slim's connections and support helped Bodie build his corner into a good drug market. Chris Partlow and Marlo noticed this and offered Bodie an ultimatum: let Marlo's operation take over the corner by force, or remain but work Marlo's less profitable heroin package.
Bodie's corner became successful thanks to Slim's connections and support. Chris Partlow and Marlo saw this and offered Bodie a choice: either let Marlo take over his territory by force, or continue operating but sell a less profitable heroin product under Marlo's control.