She was a friend of fellow feminist freethinker Emma Martin (1812-1851)[2] Roalfe moved from London to Edinburgh to run a bookshop, The Atheistical Depot, and publishing company Matilda Roalfe & Company, at 105 Nicolson Street.
Also, the Trials of Thomas Finlay and Miss Matilda Roalfe (for Blasphemy), in the Sheriffs' Court.
With Notes and a Special Dissertation on Blasphemy Prosecution in General, by the Secretary of the Anti-Persecution Union", published by Henry Hetherington, London and Edinburgh (1844)[6] Roalfe began a magazine in 1844 called "The Plebian" with William Baker.
[7] During the trial, Roalfe was told that if she pleaded that she was unaware of the nature of the books then she would escape with a shorter sentence; she refused to do so.
[3] Roalfe pleaded not guilty claiming that she did not sell the books with a "wicked and felonious intent.